MicroRNA-370-3p inhibits human glioma cell proliferation and induces cell cycle arrest by directly targeting β-catenin

Circ-NMNAT1 Drives Tumor Progression in Bladder Cancer by Modulating the miR-370-3p/ATXN2L Axis

The relationship between circular RNAs (circRNAs) and tumor growth and metastasis is increasingly well-established. In this study, we sought to shed light on circ-NMNAT1's potential molecular mechanisms in bladder cancer (BCa). circ-NMNAT1, miR-370-3p, and ATXN2L expression profiles were explored using RT-qPCR and/or Western blot techniques. Cell proliferation was detected by MTT and colony formation assay. Transwell assay was used to detect the migration and invasion ability of cells. Western Blot was used to detect the protein expression level of ATXN2L. The targeting relationship between miR-370-3p and circ-NMNAT1 or ATXN2L was confirmed by dual luciferase reporter gene and RIP assay. A xenograft tumor model was created to investigate circ-NMNAT1's function in BCa in vivo. The high expression of circ-NMNAT1 was measured in BCa. circ-NMNAT1 bound competitively to miR-370-3p and downregulated miR-370-3p expression. After knocking down circ-NMNAT1, the proliferation ability of EJ cells was significantly inhibited, and the number of cell colonies was (80.00 ± 7.10). The number of migrated and invaded cells was significantly reduced by (35.49 ± 0.05)% and (59.00 ± 0.04)%, respectively, after silencing circ-NMNAT1. In addition, downregulation of circ-NMNAT1 also significantly increased the apoptosis rate of EJ cells by (23.55 ± 2.95)%. Knockdown of miR-370-3p or overexpression of ATXN2L reduced the effect of circ-NMNAT1 silencing on BCa cells. The promoting effect of circ-NMNAT1 on BCa progression was further validated in vivo tumor models. The weight and volume of the tumor were significantly inhibited after circ-NMNAT1 knockdown, which were (87.50 ± 20.40) mg and (238.90 ± 21.38) mm3, respectively. Circ-NMNAT1 is highly expressed in BCa and promotes the proliferation, migration, and invasion of BCa cells by regulating the miR-370-3p/ATXN2L axis, thereby accelerating the progression of BCa. Our results suggest that circ-NMNAT1 may be a new therapeutic target for BCa.

The epigenetic mechanisms involved in the treatment resistance of glioblastoma

Glioblastoma (GBM) is an aggressive malignant brain tumor with almost inevitable recurrence despite multimodal management with surgical resection and radio-chemotherapy. While several genetic, proteomic, cellular, and anatomic factors interplay to drive recurrence and promote treatment resistance, the epigenetic component remains among the most versatile and heterogeneous of these factors. Herein, the epigenetic landscape of GBM refers to a myriad of modifications and processes that can alter gene expression without altering the genetic code of cancer cells. These processes encompass DNA methylation, histone modification, chromatin remodeling, and non-coding RNA molecules, all of which have been found to be implicated in augmenting the tumor's aggressive behavior and driving its resistance to therapeutics. This review aims to delve into the underlying interactions that mediate this role for each of these epigenetic components. Further, it discusses the two-way relationship between epigenetic modifications and tumor heterogeneity and plasticity, which are crucial to effectively treat GBM. Finally, we build on the previous characterization of epigenetic modifications and interactions to explore specific targets that have been investigated for the development of promising therapeutic agents.

Detailed pathological role of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) in regulating drug resistance of glioblastoma, and update

Glioma is a kind of brain tumor that develops in the central nervous system and is classified based on its histology and molecular genetic features. The lifespan of patients does not exceed 22 months. One of the motives for the low effectiveness of glioma treatment is its radioresistance and chemoresistance. Noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) are a diverse set of transcripts that do not undergo translation to become proteins in glioma. The ncRNAs have been identified as significant regulators of several biological processes in different cell types and tissues, and their abnormal function has been linked to glioma. They are known to impact important occurrences, including carcinogenesis, progression, and enhanced treatment resistance in glioma cells. The ncRNAs control cell proliferation, migration, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), invasion, and drug resistance in glioma cells. The main focus of this study is to inspect the involvement of ncRNAs in the drug resistance of glioma.

Extracellular vesicles secreted by 3D tumor organoids are enriched for immune regulatory signaling biomolecules compared to conventional 2D glioblastoma cell systems

Background

Newer 3D culturing approaches are a promising way to better mimic the in vivo tumor microenvironment and to study the interactions between the heterogeneous cell populations of glioblastoma multiforme. Like many other tumors, glioblastoma uses extracellular vesicles as an intercellular communication system to prepare surrounding tissue for invasive tumor growth. However, little is known about the effects of 3D culture on extracellular vesicles. The aim of this study was to comprehensively characterize extracellular vesicles in 3D organoid models and compare them to conventional 2D cell culture systems.

Methods

Primary glioblastoma cells were cultured as 2D and 3D organoid models. Extracellular vesicles were obtained by precipitation and immunoaffinity, with the latter allowing targeted isolation of the CD9/CD63/CD81 vesicle subpopulation. Comprehensive vesicle characterization was performed and miRNA expression profiles were generated by smallRNA-sequencing. In silico analysis of differentially regulated miRNAs was performed to identify mRNA targets and corresponding signaling pathways. The tumor cell media and extracellular vesicle proteome were analyzed by high-resolution mass spectrometry.

Results

We observed an increased concentration of extracellular vesicles in 3D organoid cultures. Differential gene expression analysis further revealed the regulation of twelve miRNAs in 3D tumor organoid cultures (with nine miRNAs down and three miRNAs upregulated). MiR-23a-3p, known to be involved in glioblastoma invasion, was significantly increased in 3D. MiR-7-5p, which counteracts glioblastoma malignancy, was significantly decreased. Moreover, we identified four miRNAs (miR-323a-3p, miR-382-5p, miR-370-3p, miR-134-5p) located within the DLK1-DIO3 domain, a cancer-associated genomic region, suggesting a possible importance of this region in glioblastoma progression. Overrepresentation analysis identified alterations of extracellular vesicle cargo in 3D organoids, including representation of several miRNA targets and proteins primarily implicated in the immune response.

Conclusion

Our results show that 3D glioblastoma organoid models secrete extracellular vesicles with an altered cargo compared to corresponding conventional 2D cultures. Extracellular vesicles from 3D cultures were found to contain signaling molecules associated with the immune regulatory signaling pathways and as such could potentially change the surrounding microenvironment towards tumor progression and immunosuppressive conditions. These findings suggest the use of 3D glioblastoma models for further clinical biomarker studies as well as investigation of new therapeutic options.

Regulatory role of miRNAs on Wnt/β-catenin signaling in tumorigenesis of glioblastoma

Glioblastoma (GBM) is one of the most aggressive tumors in the brain with high mortality worldwide. Despite recent advances in therapeutic strategies, the survival rate remains low in patients with GBM. The pathogenesis of GBM is a very complicated process involving various genetic mutations affecting several oncogenic signaling pathways like Wnt/β-catenin axis. Overactivation of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway is associated with decreased survival and poor prognosis in patients with GBM. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) were shown to play important roles in the regulation of cell proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, and tumorigenesis by modulating the expression of their target genes. Aberrant expression of miRNAs were reported in various human malignancies including GBM, breast, colorectal, liver, and prostate cancers, but little is known about their cellular mechanisms. Therefore, recognition of the expression profile and regulatory effects of miRNAs on the Wnt/β-catenin pathway may offer a novel approach for the classification, diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment of patients with GBM. This review summarizes previous data on the modulatory role of miRNAs on the Wnt/β-catenin pathway implicated in tumorigenesis of GBM.

HMGA2 regulation by miRNAs in cancer: affecting cancer hallmarks and therapy response

High mobility group A 2 (HMGA2) is a protein that modulates the structure of chromatin in the nucleus. Importantly, aberrant expression of HMGA2 occurs during carcinogenesis, and this protein is an upstream mediator of cancer hallmarks including evasion of apoptosis, proliferation, invasion, metastasis, and therapy resistance. HMGA2 targets critical signaling pathways such as Wnt/β-catenin and mTOR in cancer cells. Therefore, suppression of HMGA2 function notably decreases cancer progression and improves outcome in patients. As HMGA2 is mainly oncogenic, targeting expression by non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) is crucial to take into consideration since it affects HMGA2 function. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) belong to ncRNAs and are master regulators of vital cell processes, which affect all aspects of cancer hallmarks. Long ncRNAs (lncRNAs) and circular RNAs (circRNAs), other members of ncRNAs, are upstream mediators of miRNAs. The current review intends to discuss the importance of the miRNA/HMGA2 axis in modulation of various types of cancer, and mentions lncRNAs and circRNAs, which regulate this axis as upstream mediators. Finally, we discuss the effect of miRNAs and HMGA2 interactions on the response of cancer cells to therapy. Regarding the critical role of HMGA2 in regulation of critical signaling pathways in cancer cells, and considering the confirmed interaction between HMGA2 and one of the master regulators of cancer, miRNAs, targeting miRNA/HMGA2 axis in cancer therapy is promising and this could be the subject of future clinical trial experiments.

circ_0025033 promotes ovarian cancer development via regulating the hsa_miR-370-3p/SLC1A5 axis

BACKGROUND

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) appear to be important modulators in ovarian cancer. We aimed to explore the role and mechanism of circ_0025033 in ovarian cancer.

METHODS

qRT-PCR was conducted to determine circ_0025033, hsa_miR-370-3p, and SLC1A5 mRNA expression. Functional experiments were conducted, including Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8), 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine (EdU), flow cytometry, transwell, tube formation, xenograft tumor model assay, western blot analysis of protein levels, and analysis of glutamine metabolism using commercial kits. Their predicted interaction was confirmed using dual-luciferase reporter and RNA pull-down.

RESULTS

circ_0025033 was upregulated in ovarian cancer; its knockdown induced proliferation, invasion, angiogenesis, glutamine metabolism, and apoptosis in vitro, and blocked tumor growth in vivo. circ_0025033 regulated ovarian cancer cellular behaviors via sponging hsa_miR-370-3p. In parallel, SLC1A5 might abolish the anti-ovarian cancer role of hsa_miR-370-3p. Furthermore, circ_0025033 affected SLC1A5 via regulating hsa_miR-370-3p.

CONCLUSION

circ_0025033 might promote ovarian cancer progression via hsa_miR-370-3p/SLC1A5, providing an interesting insight into ovarian cancer tumorigenesis.

Deficiency of a novel lncRNA-HRAT protects against myocardial ischemia reperfusion injury by targeting miR-370-3p/RNF41 pathway

Accumulating evidence indicates that long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) contribute to myocardial ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury. However, the underlying mechanisms by which lncRNAs modulate myocardial I/R injury have not been thoroughly examined and require further investigation. A novel lncRNA named lncRNA-hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R)-associated transcript (lncRNA-HRAT) was identified by RNA sequencing analysis. The expression of lncRNA-HRAT exhibited a significant increase in the I/R mice hearts and cardiomyocytes treated with H/R. LncRNA-HRAT overexpression facilitates H/R-induced cardiomyocyte apoptosis. Furthermore, cardiomyocyte-specific deficiency of lncRNA-HRAT in vivo after I/R decreased creatine kinase (CK) release in the serum, reduced myocardial infarct area, and improved cardiac dysfunction. Molecular mechanistic investigations revealed that lncRNA-HRAT serves as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) of miR-370-3p, thus upregulating the expression of ring finger protein 41 (RNF41), thereby aggravating apoptosis in cardiomyocytes induced by H/R. This study revealed that the lncRNA-HRAT/miR-370-3p/RNF41 pathway regulates cardiomyocyte apoptosis and myocardial injury. These findings suggest that targeted inhibition of lncRNA-HRAT may offer a novel therapeutic method to prevent myocardial I/R injury.

LncRNA GAS6-AS1 facilitates tumorigenesis and metastasis of colorectal cancer by regulating TRIM14 through miR-370-3p/miR-1296-5p and FUS

Background

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are essential regulators of tumorigenesis and the development of colorectal cancer (CRC). Here, we aimed to investigate the role of lncRNA GAS6-AS1 in CRC and its potential mechanisms.

Methods

Bioinformatics analyses evaluated the level of GAS6-AS1 in colon cancer, its correlation with clinicopathological factors, survival curve and diagnostic value. qRT-PCR were performed to detect the GAS6-AS1 level in CRC samples and cell lines. The CCK8, EdU, scratch healing, transwell assays and animal experiments were conducted to investigate the function of GAS6-AS1 in CRC. RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) and dual-luciferase reporter gene analyses were carried out to reveal interaction between GAS6-AS1, TRIM14, FUS, and miR-370-3p/miR-1296-5p.

Results

GAS6-AS1 was greatly elevated in CRC and positively associated with unfavorable prognosis of CRC patients. Functionally, GAS6-AS1 positively regulates CRC proliferation, migration, invasion, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in vitro and induces CRC growth and metastasis in vivo. Moreover, GAS6-AS1 exerted oncogenic function by competitively binding to miR-370-3p and miR-1296-5p, thereby upregulating TRIM14. Furthermore, we verified that GAS6-AS1 and TRIM14 both interact with FUS and that GAS6-AS1 stabilized TRIM14 mRNA by recruiting FUS. Besides, rescue experiments furtherly demonstrated that GAS6-AS1 facilitate progression of CRC by regulating TRIM14.

Conclusion

Collectively, these findings demonstrate that GAS6-AS1 promotes TRIM14-mediated cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and EMT of CRC via ceRNA network and FUS-dependent manner, suggesting that GAS6-AS1 could be utilized as a novel biomarker and therapeutic target for CRC.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12967-022-03550-0.

Green Synthesized Bismuth Oxide Nanoparticles Using Aqueous Rhizome Extract of Curcuma longa Mitigate the Proliferation of Human U87 Glioblastoma Cells by Regulation of the Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling Pathway

The low biocompatibility of inorganic nanoparticles (NPs) is a main concern in their wide applications in the biomedical field. Therefore, the green synthesis of NPs from plant extracts can provide safe NPs for biomedical applications. The present study was aimed to assess the anticancer activity of bismuth oxide (Bi2O3) NPs fabricated using aqueous plant extracts from the rhizome of Curcuma longa (C. longa). Characterization of green Bi2O3 NPs was done using TEM, DLS, and X-ray diffraction analyses. Selective anticancer activity of green Bi2O3 NPs against human glioblastoma (U87) cells was assessed using MTT, GSH, MDA, ROS, apoptosis, and caspase-3 assays. Also, qPCR analysis was done to explore the expression of β-catenin, cyclin D1, and c-myc at mRNA level as the important genes of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. The results showed that the green Bi2O3 NPs have a crystalline nature with a size of around 30 nm with good colloidal stability attributed to potential bio-fabrication of Bi2O3 NPs. Cellular study indicated that green Bi2O3 NPs triggered selective anticancer activity against U87 cells through reduction of GSH level and increase of MDA level, ROS level, Annexin+ cells, and caspase-3 activity. Also, it was found that IC50 concentration of biosynthesized Bi2O3 NPs (20 μg/mL) resulted in a significant downregulation in the expression of β-catenin, cyclin D1, and c-myc genes involved in the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. This study concludes that green Bi2O3 NPs bio-fabricated from rhizome of C. longa show potential selective anticancer activity.

A diagnostic and prognostic value of blood-based circulating long non-coding RNAs in Thyroid, Pancreatic and Ovarian Cancer

Several studies have demonstrated the potential of circulating long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) as promising cancer biomarkers. Herein, we addressed the regulatory role of circulating lncRNAs and their potential value as diagnostic/prognostic markers for thyroid, pancreatic and ovarian cancers. Furthermore, we analyzed and measured the clinical implications and association of lncRNAs with sensitivity, specificity, and area under the ROC curve (AUC). Based on our meta-analysis, we found that GAS8-AS1 could discriminate thyroid cancer from non-cancer and other cancers with higher accuracy (AUC = 0.746; sensitivity = 61.70%, and specificity = 90.00%). Similarly, for ovarian cancer, lncRNA RP5-837J1.2 was found to have ideal diagnostic potential with critical clinical specifications of AUC = 0.996; sensitivity = 97.30% and specificity = 94.60%. Whereas we could not find any lncRNA having high diagnostic/prognostic efficiency in pancreatic cancer. We believe that lncRNAs mentioned above may explore clinical settings for the diagnosis and prognosis of cancer patients.

lncRNA HLA Complex Group 18 (HCG18) Facilitated Cell Proliferation, Invasion, and Migration of Prostate Cancer Through Modulating miR-370-3p/DDX3X Axis

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been reported to exert critical functions in the malignant development of many cancers. lncRNA HLA complex group 18 (HCG18) has been confirmed to have a promoting effect on various cancers. However, whether HCG18 functions in PC is still unclear. Therefore, the current study aimed at unveiling the role of HCG18 in PC progression and its regulatory mechanism on the biological behaviors of PC. Here, RT-qPCR was utilized to detect HCG18 expression, and then, functional experiments were conducted to verify the effects of HCG18 on PC cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and apoptosis. According to the results, HCG18 was significantly up-regulated in PC cells and it facilitated cell proliferation, migration, and invasion in PC. Furthermore, a series of mechanism experiments were carried out to verify the relationship among HCG18, miR-370-3p, and DEAD-box helicase 3 X-linked(DDX3X) in PC cells. Final rescue assays showed that DDX3X overexpression could reverse the inhibitory function of silencing HCG18 on PC progression. In summary, our study showed that lncRNA HCG18 accelerated cell proliferation, invasion, and migration of PC via up-regulating DDX3X through sponging miR-370-3p, providing a novel finding about PC-related regulatory mechanism.

Regulatory interplay between microRNAs and WNT pathway in glioma

Glioma is one of the most common neoplasms of the central nervous system with a poor survival. Due to the obstacles in treating this disease, a part of recent studies mainly focuses on identifying the underlying molecular mechanisms that contribute to its malignancy. Altering microRNAs (miRNAs) expression pattern has been identified obviously in many cancers. Through regulating various targets and signaling pathways, miRNAs play a pivotal role in cancer progression. As one of the essential signaling pathways, WNT pathway is dysregulated in many cancers, and a growing body of evidence emphasis its dysregulation in glioma. Herein, we provide a comprehensive review of miRNAs involved in WNT pathway in glioma. Moreover, we show the interplay between miRNAs and WNT pathway in regulating different processes such as proliferation, invasion, migration, radio/chemotherapy resistance, and epithelial-mesenchymal-transition. Then, we introduce several drugs and treatments against glioma, which their effects are mediated through the interplay of WNT pathway and miRNAs.

Emerging roles of circUBAP2 targeting miR-370-3p in proliferation, apoptosis, and invasion of papillary thyroid cancer cells

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have been documented to be aberrantly expressed in many types of malignancies and involved in cancer progression. However, their role in thyroid cancer (TC) remains largely unknown. Our study aimed to explore the role and mechanism of circUBAP2 in TC. The differentially expressed circRNAs in TC tissues were identified using GSE18105 from gene expression omnibus (GEO) database. CircUBAP2 and miR-370-3p expression was analyzed using qRT-PCR. The stability of circUBAP2 was confirmed by actinomycin D and RNase R. The subcellular localization of circUBAP2 was detected using cell fractionation assay. Cell proliferation, apoptosis, and invasion were evaluated using MTT, flow cytometry analysis, and Transwell invasion assay, respectively. The interaction between circUBAP2 and miR-370-3p was predicted using bioinformatics analysis and validated by luciferase reporter assay, RNA pull-down assay, and RNA immunoprecipitation. CircUBAP2 was upregulated and miR-370-3p was downregulated in TC tissues and cells. CircUBAP2 was highly stable, resistant to RNase R digestion, and predominantly localized in the cytoplasm. CircUBAP2 knockdown inhibited cell proliferation and invasion and triggered apoptosis in TC cells. Bioinformatics analysis showed that circUBAP2 contained putative binding sites of miR-370-3p. CircUBAP2 acted as a sponge to inhibit miR-370-3p expression. Mechanistically, miR-370-3p inhibition abolished the effects of circUBAP2 on proliferation, apoptosis, and invasion in TC cells. Taken together, CircUBAP2 knockdown impeded the proliferation and invasion and induced apoptosis in TC cells via sponging miR-370-3p.

Long noncoding RNA GAS6 antisense RNA1 silencing attenuates the tumorigenesis of acute myeloid leukemia cells through targeting microRNA-370-3p/Tetraspanin3 axis

PURPOSE

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a type of hematologic malignancy. This study was attempt to explore the effect of long noncoding RNA GAS6 antisense RNA1 (GAS6-AS1) on pediatric AML and the regulation mechanisms.

METHODS

GAS6-AS1, microRNA-370-3p (miR-370-3p), and Tetraspanin3 (TSPAN3) expression in bone marrow (BM) tissues and cells was determined by qRT-PCR. The correlation between GAS6-AS1 and clinicopathological features of pediatric patients with AML was assessed. In vitro, viability and migration and invasion of AML cells were evaluated via MTT and transwell assays, respectively. Interactions among GAS6-AS1, miR-370-3p, and TSPAN3 were revealed by dual-luciferase reporter assays. Western blot was applied to confirm the protein expression of TSPAN3.

RESULTS

GAS6-AS1 and TSPAN3 expression was elevated in BM tissues of pediatric patients with AML and AML cells, but miR-370-3p expression was reduced. GAS6-AS1 expression was positively related to French-American-British (FAB) classification in pediatric patients with AML. In vitro, GAS6-AS1 deficiency restrained the viability, migration, and invasion of AML cells. Additionally, GAS6-AS1 mediated miR-370-3p expression indeed and TSPAN3 was identified as a target of miR-370-3p. Furthermore, miR-370-3p overexpression repressed the protein expression of TSPAN3. The feedback experiments demonstrated that miR-370-3p inhibition or TSPAN3 overexpression mitigated the suppressive effect of sh-GAS6-AS1 on the tumorigenesis of AML cells.

CONCLUSION

GAS6-AS1 silencing restrained AML cell viability, migration, and invasion by targeting miR-370-3p/TSPAN3 axis, affording a novel therapeutic target for pediatric AML.

An Insight into the microRNAs Associated with Arteriovenous and Cavernous Malformations of the Brain

Background: Brain arteriovenous malformations (BAVMs) and cerebral cavernous malformations (CCMs) are rare developmental anomalies of the intracranial vasculature, with an irregular tendency to rupture, and as of yet incompletely deciphered pathophysiology. Because of their variety in location, morphology, and size, as well as unpredictable natural history, they represent a management challenge. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are strands of non-coding RNA of around 20 nucleotides that are able to modulate the expression of target genes by binding completely or partially to their respective complementary sequences. Recent breakthroughs have been made on elucidating their contribution to BAVM and CCM occurrence, growth, and evolution; however, there are still countless gaps in our understanding of the mechanisms involved. Methods: We have searched the Medline (PubMed; PubMed Central) database for pertinent articles on miRNAs and their putative implications in BAVMs and CCMs. To this purpose, we employed various permutations of the terms and idioms: ‘arteriovenous malformation’, ‘AVM’, and ‘BAVM’, or ‘cavernous malformation’, ‘cavernoma’, and ‘cavernous angioma’ on the one hand; and ‘microRNA’, ‘miRNA’, and ‘miR’ on the other. Using cross-reference search; we then investigated additional articles concerning the individual miRNAs identified in other cerebral diseases. Results: Seven miRNAs were discovered to play a role in BAVMs, three of which were downregulated (miR-18a, miR-137, and miR-195*) and four upregulated (miR-7-5p, miR-199a-5p, miR-200b-3p, and let-7b-3p). Similarly, eight miRNAs were identified in CCM in humans and experimental animal models, two being upregulated (miR-27a and mmu-miR-3472a), and six downregulated (miR-125a, miR-361-5p, miR-370-3p, miR-181a-2-3p, miR-95-3p, and let-7b-3p). Conclusions: The following literature review endeavored to address the recent discoveries related to the various implications of miRNAs in the formation and growth of BAVMs and CCMs. Additionally, by presenting other cerebral pathologies correlated with these miRNAs, it aimed to emphasize the potential directions of upcoming research and biological therapies.

ERK-CREB pathway is involved in HSPB8-mediated glioma cell growth and metastatic properties

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the mechanism of HSPB8 (heat shock protein beta-8) in the growth and metastatic properties of glioma cells.

METHODS

HSPB8 expression in glioma tissue and cell was detected via Western blotting. Then, glioma U87 and U251 cell lines were divided into Mock group, Control siRNA group, HSPB8 siRNA-1 group and HSPB8 siRNA-2 group. Cell proliferation was detected using MTT assay, while its invasion, migration and apoptosis were determined by Transwell, wound-healing and flow cytometry, respectively. The expression of HSPB8 and ERK-CREB pathway-related molecules were also measured by Western blotting. Xenograft models were constructed on nude mice, and accordingly, the growth curve of subcutaneous xenograft was prepared.

RESULTS

In glioma tissues, HSPB8 expression was upregulated with the increasing grade of glioma. Besides, glioma cells in the HSPB8 siRNA-1 group and HSPB8 siRNA-2 group manifested the significant enhancement in apoptotic rates and reductions in its proliferation, migration and invasion compared to those in the Mock group, meanwhile, the expression of HSPB8, p-ERK1/2/ERK1/2 and p-CREB/CREB were downregulated. On the other hand, the tumor growth in the nude mice of Ad-HSPB8 shRNA-1 group and Ad-HSPB8 shRNA-2 group was retarded significantly, with an acute decrease in the tumor weight.

CONCLUSION

Silencing HSPB8 can inhibit the malignant features, while facilitate the apoptosis of glioma cells, with inactivation of ERK-CREB pathway.

miR-720 is a key regulator of glioma migration and invasion by controlling TARSL2 expression

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most lethal type of primary brain tumor and is characterized by diffuse infiltrative growth. However, the mechanisms that control this phenotype remain largely unknown. Emerging evidence has demonstrated that the abnormal expression of microRNAs and their target genes are involved in the migration and invasion of glioma cells. In this study, we demonstrated that microRNA-720 (miR-720) was significantly upregulated in glioma tissues and cells. Functional experiments showed that overexpression of miR-720 promotes glioma migration and invasion, while downregulation of miR-720 inhibits glioma migration and invasion. Meanwhile, we found that threonyl-tRNA synthetase like-2 (TARSL2) was a direct and functional target of miR-720 in glioma. Reintroduction of TARSL2 into glioma cells repressed the invasion promoting function of miR-720, whereas downregulation of TARSL2 reversed the anti-invasion function of anti-miR-720. Furthermore, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction results showed that miR-720 was inversely correlated with TARSL2 expression in 40 GBM tissues. Finally, in vivo experiments showed that miR-720 promotes glioma growth and upregulates invasion-related genes in nude mice. Overall, our findings suggest increasing miR-720 enhances glioma migration and invasion through downregulation of TARSL2, which may provide novel insight into the treatment of glioma.

MiR-370-3p inhibits the development of human endometriosis by downregulating EDN1 expression in endometrial stromal cells

MiR-370-3p has been demonstrated to be downregulated in patients with endometriosis (EM). However, its role and molecular mechanisms in the progression of EM remain unclear. Real-time polymerase chain reaction was used to measure the expression of miR-370-3p and endothelin-1 (EDN1) in patients with or without EM. After miR-370-3p overexpression or knockdown in ectopic endometrial hEM15A cells, the changes in the proliferation, apoptosis, and migration and invasion capacities were detected by using cell counting kit-8, flow cytometry, and transwell methods. The interplay between miR-370-3p and EDN1 was confirmed by a luciferase reporter assay. Patients with EM showed adverse expression of EDN1 and miR-370-3p, especially in eutopic endometrium and ectopic endometrium. MiR-370-3p inhibited the proliferation, metastasis, and invasion capacities of hEM15A cells and promoted apoptosis. Investigation of its molecular mechanism revealed that miR-370-3p targeted EDN1 to influence the biological functions of hEM15A cells. MiR-370-3p represented as a therapeutic target for EM treatment.

LncRNA MNX1-AS1 drives aggressive laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma progression and serves as a ceRNA to target FoxM1 by sponging microRNA-370

Long non-coding RNA (LncRNA) MNX1 antisense RNA 1(MNX1-AS1) is associated with the pathology of numerous cancers. But, the role and underlying pathways of MNX1-AS1 in the regulation of laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC) is not known. We demonstrated remarkably elevated levels of MNX1-AS1 in the LSCC tissues, which was correlated with poor disease prognosis. Moreover, MNX1-AS1-silencing strongly suppressed LSCC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. We also demonstrated that MNX1-AS1 sequesters that activity of miR-370, thereby releasing Forkhead Box ml (FoxM1) from the inhibitory actions of MNX1-AS1. Furthermore, the positive correlation of MNX1-AS1 and FoxM1 as well as the converse correlation between miR-370 and MNX1-AS1 (or FoxM1) were revealed in LSCC tissues using experiments. Based on rescue assays, FoxM1 overexpression or miR-370 downregulation partially recovered the inhibitory effect of MNX1-AS1 silencing on LSCC cells. Moreover, knockdown of MNX1-AS1 retarded tumor growth in nude mice model. In summary, these findings verified that MNX1-AS1 modulated LSCC progression by competitively binding with miR-370 to regulate FoxM1.

Inhibition of lncRNA H19/miR-370-3p pathway mitigates neuronal apoptosis in an in vitro model of spinal cord injury (SCI)

BACKGROUND

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is the most serious complication of spinal injury, often leading to severe dysfunction of the limbs below the injured segment. Conventional therapy approaches are becoming less and less effective, and gene therapy is a new research direction by now.

METHODS

The Sprague-Dawley rats were haphazardly assigned to two groups, namely sham group and SCI model group, and lncRNA H19 and miR-370-3p levels were investigated using reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). Correlation between lncRNA H19 and miR-370-3p was ascertained by luciferase report assay and RT-qPCR. After transfection with si-H19, miR-370-3p inhibitor, negative controls (NC), or both, primary spinal neurons were subjected to the simulation of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) for inducing in vitro model of SCI. Cell viability, apoptotic rate, caspase-3 activity, Bax and Bcl-2 protein, ROS generation, TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 protein, as well as IκBα and p65 phosphorylation ratio were evaluated adopting 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT), apoptosis, caspase-3 activity, ROS generation, and western blot assays, thereby searching for the specific action mechanism on LPS-induced spinal never injury.

RESULTS

SCI resulted in lncRNA H19 higher expression and miR-370-3p lower expression. LPS simulation raised a series of cellular biological changes, such as decreased viability, promoted apoptosis, generated ROS, and released inflammatory factors. lncRNA H19 inhibition reversed above LPS-induced changes. Besides, as the downstream target of lncRNA H19, miR-370-3p was oppositely regulated by lncRNA H19. The above biological changes induced by lncRNA H19 inhibition were reversed by miR-370-3p upregulation. Moreover, lncRNA H19 inhibition could block NF-κB pathway through miR-370-3p upregulation.

CONCLUSION

Inhibition of lncRNA H19/miR-370-3p mitigated spinal neuron apoptosis in an in vitro model of SCI. This provided the possibility for clinical use of gene therapy.

Cytochrome P450 expression and regulation in the brain

The regulation of brain cytochrome P450 enzymes (CYPs) is different compared with respective hepatic enzymes. This may result from anatomical bases and physiological functions of the two organs. The brain is composed of a variety of functional structures built of different interconnected cell types endowed with specific receptors that receive various neuronal signals from other brain regions. Those signals activate transcription factors or alter functioning of enzyme proteins. Moreover, the blood-brain barrier (BBB) does not allow free penetration of all substances from the periphery into the brain. Differences in neurotransmitter signaling, availability to endogenous and exogenous active substances, and levels of transcription factors between neuronal and hepatic cells lead to differentiated expression and susceptibility to the regulation of CYP genes in the brain and liver. Herein, we briefly describe the CYP enzymes of CYP1-3 families, their distribution in the brain, and discuss brain-specific regulation of CYP genes. In parallel, a comparison to liver CYP regulation is presented. CYP enzymes play an essential role in maintaining the levels of bioactive molecules within normal ranges. These enzymes modulate the metabolism of endogenous neurochemicals, such as neurosteroids, dopamine, serotonin, melatonin, anandamide, and exogenous substances, including psychotropics, drugs of abuse, neurotoxins, and carcinogens. The role of these enzymes is not restricted to xenobiotic-induced neurotoxicity, but they are also involved in brain physiology. Therefore, it is crucial to recognize the function and regulation of CYP enzymes in the brain to build a foundation for future medicine and neuroprotection and for personalized treatment of brain diseases.

Knockdown of Circular RNA Hsa_circ_0000714 Can Regulate RAB17 by Sponging miR-370-3p to Reduce Paclitaxel Resistance of Ovarian Cancer Through CDK6/RB Pathway

Purpose

Paclitaxel resistance in ovarian cancer has become an urgent clinical problem. This study investigated the regulatory effects of RAB17 on the non-coding RNA network of the paclitaxel-resistant ovarian cancer cell A2780/PTX.

Methods

Microarray analysis was used to identify differentially expressed genes in paclitaxel-resistant cell A2780/PTX compared to the parent paclitaxel-sensitive cell A2780. Quantitative real-time PCR and Western blot were used to measure the expression of related mRNAs and proteins. The CCK8 assay was used to determine cell survival ratios and drug resistance indices in ovarian cancer cells. The clone forming assay was used to analyze the cell clone proliferation. Flow cytometry was used to analyze the cell cycle. Dual-luciferase reporter gene assays evaluated the relationship between the genes.

Results

RAB17 is highly expressed in A2780/PTX cells. RAB17 knockdown increased the cell sensitivity to paclitaxel, inhibited proliferation, and caused cell cycle arrest in the G1 phase in A2780/PTX. Western blot confirmed that RAB17 influenced cell behavior by activating the CDK6/RB signaling pathway. Bioinformatics analyses identified RAB17 as a new target by the microRNA miR-370-3p, and the latter was predicted to interact with circular RNA hsa_circ_0000714. Hsa_circ_0000714 indeed acted as a miRNA sponge for miR-370-3p allowing its regulation of RAB17 expression. This regulation was accomplished through the CDK6/RB signaling pathway.

Conclusion

Hsa_circ_0000714 acts as a sponge for miR-370-3p, and regulates RAB17 expression through the CDK6/RB signaling pathway, which plays a role in the malignant progression of the paclitaxel-resistant ovarian cancer cell A2780/PTX.

lncRNA CTBP1-AS2 promotes proliferation and migration of glioma by modulating miR-370-3p-Wnt7a-mediated epithelial-mesenchymal transition

Glioma is one of the most common and aggressive malignant primary brain tumors, with a poor 5-year survival rate. The long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) CTBP1-AS2 has been shown to be correlated with the prognosis of cancer, but the role of CTBP1-AS2 in glioma and its concrete mechanism is fully unknown. The clinical data and tissues of glioma patients were analyzed. Cell viability and migration assays were performed. Western blotting and qRT-PCR were adopted for investigation of target protein expressions. Double luciferase assay was used to investigate the interaction between different elements. The lncRNA CTBP1-AS2 had increased expression profiles in tumor tissues, which is associated with poor prognosis. In detail, CTBP1-AS2 knockdown decreased proliferation and migration phenotypes in both U87-MG and LN229 cells. Moreover, CTBP1-AS2 knockdown suppressed the key epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) markers by downregulating Wnt7a-mediated signaling. Furthermore, miR-370-3p functioned as a link that could be absorbed by CTBP1-AS2, thus regulating Wnt7a expression. Lastly, the CTBP1-AS2-miR-370-3p-Wnt7a axis modulated EMT in glioma cells in vitro and in vivo. This study provides new insights that a novel lncRNA, CTBP1-AS2, regulates EMT of glioma by modulating the miR-370-3p-Wnt7a axis.

MicroRNA-1236-3p inhibits human osteosarcoma growth

Osteosarcoma (OS) is a common bone tumor with high mortality worldwide. The long-term survival rate of patients with metastatic or recurrent disease is <20%. The present study explored the biological role of microRNA (miRNA/miR)-1236-3p in OS. miRNA and mRNA expression levels were measured via reverse transcription-quantitative PCR. Fluorescence in situ hybridization was performed to determine miR-1236-3p expression levels in clinical specimens. Protein expression was measured via western blotting. Immunohistochemical analysis was used to detect Wnt target gene expression in tumor tissues. The interaction between the Wnt3a 3′untranslated region and miR-1236-3p was assessed via dual-luciferase reporter assays. Cell cycle, Transwell, Cell Counting Kit-8 and wound healing assays were conducted to evaluate the function of the miR-1236-3p/Wnt3a axis. Human OS (HOS) cells stably transfected with vector or miR-1236-3p sponge were injected subcutaneously into nude mice to assess the role of miR-1236-3p in vivo. miR-1236-3p expression was downregulated in OS tissues compared with chondroma tissues, and miR-1236-3p overexpression inhibited OS cell migration and proliferation compared with the negative control group. Furthermore, in vivo xenograft assays displayed enhanced tumour growth rates in the miR-1236-3p sponge group compared with the vector control group. In the present study, the results indicated that miR-1236-3p inhibited OS progression and Wnt3a was identified as a target of miR-1236-3p.

Long noncoding RNA FGF14-AS2 inhibits breast cancer metastasis by regulating the miR-370-3p/FGF14 axis

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have emerged as important regulators in cancers, including breast cancer. However, the overall biological roles and clinical significance of most lncRNAs are not fully understood. This study aimed to elucidate the potential role of a novel lncRNA FGF14-AS2 and the mechanisms underlying metastasis in breast cancer. The lncRNA FGF14-AS2 was significantly downregulated in breast cancer tissues; patients with lower FGF14-AS2 expression had advanced clinical stage. In vitro and in vivo assays of FGF14-AS2 alterations revealed a complex integrated phenotype affecting breast cancer cell migration, invasion, and tumor metastasis. Mechanistically, FGF14-AS2 functioned as a competing endogenous RNA of miR-370-3p, thereby leading to the activation of its coding counterpart, FGF14. Clinically, we observed increased miR-370-3p expression in breast cancer tissues, whereas FGF14 expression was decreased in breast cancer tissues compared to the adjacent normal breast tissues. FGF14-AS2 expression was significantly negatively correlated with miR-370-3p expression, and correlated positively to FGF14 expression. Collectively, our findings support a model in which the FGF14-AS2/miR-370-3p/FGF14 axis is a critical regulator in breast cancer metastasis, suggesting a new therapeutic direction in breast cancer.

Circ_0058124 Aggravates the Progression of Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma by Activating LMO4 Expression via Targeting miR-370-3p

Background

Thyroid cancer is the most common malignant tumor in the endocrine system. Papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) accounts for the vast majority of cases in this cancer. Recently, the vital role of circular RNA (circRNA) has been acknowledged in various cancers, and this study aimed to investigate the role of circ_0058124 and related mechanism of its action in PTC.

Materials and Methods

The expression of circ_0058124, miR-370-3p and LIM domain only (LMO4) was detected by qRT-PCR in tissue samples (PTC tissues or normal tissues, n=20) and cell lines (non-cancer cell line, Nthy-ori 3–1, and PTC cell lines, IHH-4 and TPC-1). For functional analysis, cell proliferation was investigated using CCK-8 assay and colony formation assay. Cell migration and invasion were determined using transwell assay, and cell migration was also assessed by wound healing assay. Cell apoptosis was monitored by flow cytometry assay. For mechanism analysis, the interaction between miR-370-3p and circ_0058124 or LMO4 predicted by the bioinformatics analysis was validated by dual-luciferase reporter assay or RIP assay. The effect of circ_0058124 on tumor growth in vivo was identified by establishing the Xenograft model.

Results

The expression of circ_0058124 was enhanced in PTC tissues and cells. Circ_0058124 knockdown inhibited viability, colony formation, migration and invasion and promoted apoptosis of PTC cells. Besides, circ_0058124 knockdown also blocked tumor growth in vivo. miR-370-3p was a target of circ_0058124, and circ_0058124 regulated the expression of LMO4, a target of miR-370-3p, by targeting miR-370-3p. Rescue experiments presented that miR-370-3p inhibition reversed the inhibitory effects of circ_0058124 knockdown on PTC development, and LMO4 overexpression reversed the effect of miR-370-3p restoration on PTC development.

Conclusion

Circ_0058124 promoted the development of PTC by mediating the miR-370-3p/LMO4 axis, and circ_0058124, functioned as an oncogene in PTC, might be used as a promising biomarker for PTC diagnosis and treatment.

MicroRNA-585 inhibits human glioma cell proliferation by directly targeting MDM2

Background

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are important regulators for cancer cell proliferation. miR-585 has been shown to inhibit the proliferation of several types of cancer, however, little is known about its role in human glioma cells.

Methods

miR-585 levels in human glioma clinical samples and cell lines were examined by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) analysis. Cell proliferation was measured by Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) and EdU incorporation assays in vitro. For in vivo investigations, U251 cells were intracranially inoculated in BALB/c nude mice and xenografted tumors were visualized by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Results

miR-585 expression is downregulated in human glioma tissues and cell lines compared with non-cancerous counterparts. Additionally, miR-585 overexpression inhibits and its knockdown promotes human glioma cell proliferation in vitro. Moreover, miR-585 overexpression also inhibits the growth of glioma xenografts in vivo, suggesting that miR-585 may act as a tumor suppressor to inhibit the proliferation of human glioma. Furthermore, miR-585 directly targets and decreases the expression of oncoprotein murine double minute 2 (MDM2). More importantly, the restoration of MDM2 via enforced overexpression markedly rescues miR-585 inhibitory effect on human glioma cell proliferation, thus demonstrating that targeting MDM2 is a critical mechanism by which miR-585 inhibits human glioma cell proliferation.

Conclusions

Our study unveils the anti-proliferative role of miR-585 in human glioma cells, and also implicates its potential application in clinical therapy.

Effects of baohuoside-I on epithelial-mesenchymal transition and metastasis in nasopharyngeal carcinoma

To investigate the effect of baohuoside-I against nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) and its underlying mechanism, baohuoside-I was employed to treat NPC cell lines CNE1 and CNE2 in vitro, followed by attachment and detachment assays to evalute the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) phenotype markers. Baohuoside-I was also administered to experimental mice to assess its effect on xenograft tumor growth and NPC cell metastasis. A microRNA (miRNA, miR) microarray was performed to screen for miRNA altered by baohuoside-I in NPC cells. Bioinformatic tools and luciferase activity assay was conducted to identify the downstream molecules mediating the anti-tumor property of baohuoside-I. Baohuoside-I inhibited EMT and metastasis and upregulated miR-370-3p in NPC cells, which was shown to directly recognize and inhibit expression of Hedgehog pathway component Smoothened (SMO). Baohuoside-I suppresses metastasis as well as EMT of NPC cells through targeting the Hedgehog pathway component SMO, and may serve as a potent anti-tumor agent in the clinical management of NPC.

Mir-370-3p Impairs Glioblastoma Stem-Like Cell Malignancy Regulating a Complex Interplay between HMGA2/HIF1A and the Oncogenic Long Non-Coding RNA (lncRNA) NEAT1

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most aggressive and prevalent form of a human brain tumor in adults. Several data have demonstrated the implication of microRNAs (miRNAs) in tumorigenicity of GBM stem-like cells (GSCs). The regulatory functions of miRNAs in GSCs have emerged as potential therapeutic candidates for glioma treatment. The current study aimed at investigating the function of miR-370-3p in glioma progression, as aberrant expression of miR-370-3p, is involved in various human cancers, including glioma. Analyzing our collection of GBM samples and patient-derived GSC lines, we found the expression of miR-370-3p significantly downregulated compared to normal brain tissues and normal neural stem cells. Restoration of miR-370-3p expression in GSCs significantly decreased proliferation, migration, and clonogenic abilities of GSCs, in vitro, and tumor growth in vivo. Gene expression analysis performed on miR-370-3p transduced GSCs, identified several transcripts involved in Epithelial to Mesenchymal Transition (EMT), and Hypoxia signaling pathways. Among the genes downregulated by the restored expression of miR-370-3p, we found the EMT-inducer high-mobility group AT-hook 2 (HMGA2), the master transcriptional regulator of the adaptive response to hypoxia, Hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)1A, and the long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) Nuclear Enriched Abundant Transcript (NEAT)1. NEAT1 acts as an oncogene in a series of human cancers including gliomas, where it is regulated by the Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) pathways, and contributes to tumor growth and invasion. Noteworthy, the expression levels of miR-370-3p and NEAT1 were inversely related in both GBM tumor specimens and GSCs, and a dual-luciferase reporter assay proved the direct binding between miR-370-3p and the lncRNAs NEAT1. Our results identify a critical role of miR-370-3p in the regulation of GBM development, indicating that miR-370-3p acts as a tumor-suppressor factor inhibiting glioma cell growth, migration and invasion by targeting the lncRNAs NEAT1, HMGA2, and HIF1A, thus, providing a potential candidate for GBM patient treatment.

The Role of miRNA for the Treatment of MGMT Unmethylated Glioblastoma Multiforme

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most common high-grade intracranial tumor in adults. It is characterized by uncontrolled proliferation, diffuse infiltration due to high invasive and migratory capacities, as well as intense resistance to chemo- and radiotherapy. With a five-year survival of less than 3% and an average survival rate of 12 months after diagnosis, GBM has become a focus of current research to urgently develop new therapeutic approaches in order to prolong survival of GBM patients. The methylation status of the promoter region of the O⁶-methylguanine–DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) is nowadays routinely analyzed since a methylated promoter region is beneficial for an effective response to temozolomide-based chemotherapy. Furthermore, several miRNAs were identified regulating MGMT expression, apart from promoter methylation, by degrading MGMT mRNA before protein translation. These miRNAs could be a promising innovative treatment approach to enhance Temozolomide (TMZ) sensitivity in MGMT unmethylated patients and to increase progression-free survival as well as long-term survival. In this review, the relevant miRNAs are systematically reviewed.

circRNA_001275 upregulates Wnt7a expression by competitively sponging miR‑370‑3p to promote cisplatin resistance in esophageal cancer

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are aberrantly expressed in various tumors and are associated with tumorigenesis. The present study aimed to determine the role of circRNA_001275 in cisplatin‑resistant esophageal cancer. Three pairs of cisplatin‑resistant tissues and corresponding adjacent tissues were collected and subjected to circRNA chip analysis. Additionally, the effect of circRNA_001275 on cisplatin‑resistant cells was investigated. The relationship between circRNA_001275, microRNAs (miRs) and target genes were analyzed using luciferase assays, and validated via reverse transcription‑quantitative PCR (RT‑qPCR) and western blotting. The results showed that circRNA_001275 was significantly upregulated in cisplatin‑resistant esophageal cancer tissues and cells (P<0.05). Overexpression of circRNA_001275 promoted the proliferation and invasion, and decreased the apoptosis of cisplatin‑resistant cells. On the other hand, circRNA_001275 silencing inhibited cell proliferation and invasion, and promoted cell apoptosis (P<0.05). Dual‑luciferase reporter assays revealed that circRNA_001275 directly binds to miR‑370‑3p, and that Wnt family member 7A (Wnt7a) is targeted by miR‑370‑3p. RT‑qPCR and western blotting further demonstrated that circRNA_001275 serves as an miR‑370‑3p sponge to upregulate Wnt7a expression. In conclusion, the present study revealed that circRNA_001275 was upregulated in cisplatin‑resistant esophageal cancer and promoted cisplatin resistance by sponging miR‑370‑3p to upregulate Wnt7a expression. Therefore, circRNA_001275 may serve as a potential diagnostic biomarker and therapeutic target for patients with cisplatin‑resistant esophageal cancer.

miR-370-3p Alleviates Ulcerative Colitis-Related Colorectal Cancer in Mice Through Inhibiting the Inflammatory Response and Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition

Introduction

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic and inflammatory bowel disease. UC-associated colorectal cancer (UC-CRC) is one of the most severe complications of long-standing UC. In the present study, we explored the effects of miR-370-3p on UC-CRC in vivo and investigated its underlying mechanisms in vivo and in vitro.

Methods

Azoxymethane (AOM) and dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) were used to induce UC-CRC in C57BL/6 mice. AOM/DSS-induced mice were treated with 5×10⁸ pfu miR-370-3p overexpressing-adenovirus via tail-vein injection every two weeks.

Results

We found that miR-370-3p significantly improved the body weights and survival rates and inhibited the tumorigenesis of UC-CRC in AOM/DSS mice. Mechanically, miR-370-3p inhibited AOM/DSS-induced inflammatory response by decreasing tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and interleukin-6 (IL-6) through targeting toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), as demonstrated by down-regulation of TLR4, cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), and phosphorylated epidermal growth factor receptor (pEGFR). miR-370-3p decreased the expression of tumor-associated proteins, including p53, β-catenin, and ki67 in AOM/DSS-treated mice. Additionally, miR-370-3p remarkably inhibited epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) via increasing E-cadherin expression and reducing N-cadherin and Vimentin expression in vivo. Further studies showed that miR-370-3p repressed proliferation and EMT of colon cancer cells in vitro. Moreover, we proved that miR-370-3p decreased the expression of tumor-associated proteins and reversed EMT by regulating β-catenin in colon cancer cells.

Conclusion

Taken together, miR-370-3p alleviated UC-CRC by inhibiting the inflammatory response and EMT in mice, which suggested miR-370-3p as a novel potential target for UC-CRC therapy.

Long non-coding RNA SNHG16 promotes lipopolysaccharides-induced acute pneumonia in A549 cells via targeting miR-370-3p/IGF2 axis

BACKGROUND

Pneumonia is an infectious lung inflammation in children with high mortality and morbidity rates. Small nucleolar RNA host gene 16 (SNHG16) has been verified to accelerate the progression of acute pneumonia. However, the role of SNHG16 in acute pneumonia has not yet been fully elucidated. The study was aimed to explore the regulatory mechanism of SNHG16 in LPS-induced acute pneumonia in A549 cells.

METHODS

The levels of SNHG16, miR-370-3p and IGF2 in serum samples and LPS-induced A549 cells were detected by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). The cell viability and apoptosis of A549 cells were examined by Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assay and flow cytometer, respectively. The levels of interleukin 1β (IL-1β), interleukin 6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The binding relationships among SNHG16, miR-370-3p and IGF2 were predicted by online database and verified by Dual-luciferase reporter and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assays. The protein levels of IGF2 were tested by Western blot.

RESULTS

SNHG16 and IGF2 were upregulated while miR-370-3p was downregulated in serum of acute pneumonia patients and LPS-induced A549 cells. SNHG16 regulated proliferation, apoptosis and inflammatory cytokines by inhibiting miR-370-3p in LPS-induced A549 cells. MiR-370-3p targeted IGF2 and inhibited LPS-induced inflammatory injury via IGF2 in A549 cells. Furthermore, SNHG16 was verified to promote IGF2 expression by sponging miR-370-3p in A549 cells.

CONCLUSION

SNHG16 impeded cell viability and promoted apoptosis, inflammatory injury by targeting IGF2 mediated by miR-370-3p in LPS-induced A549 cells.

Long Non-Coding RNA TUG1 Modulates Proliferation, Migration, And Invasion Of Acute Myeloid Leukemia Cells Via Regulating miR-370-3p/MAPK1/ERK

Background

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is the most common form of acute leukemia in adults. Long non-coding RNA taurine-upregulated gene 1 (lncRNA TUG1) has been discovered to participate in multiple cancers including AML. However, the detailed mechanism of TUG1 in AML remains obscure.

Materials and methods

AML cell lines HL-60 and Kasumi-1 were taken as cell models. TUG1 knockdown or overexpression cell lines were generated. Then, the biological influence of TUG1 on cancer cells was studied using CCK-8 assay, transwell assay and Western blot in vitro. Interaction between TUG1 and miR-370-3p was determined by bioinformatics analysis, RT-PCR, and luciferase assay. Western blot, RT-PCR, and luciferase assay were carried out to validate the interaction between miR-370-3p and its target gene Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase 1 (MAPK1).

Results

Knockdown of TUG1 markedly reduced viability and metastasis of AML cells, while its overexpression had the opposite effect. MAPK1 was verified as a target gene of miR-370-3p. TUG1 could reduce the level of functional miR-370-3p, facilitate MAPK1 expression, and in turn activate ERK1/2 signaling.

Conclusion

TUG1 could modulate malignant phenotypes of AML cells via miR-370-3p/MAPK1/ERK signaling. Our study would help to clarify the mechanism of AML tumorigenesis and progression.

CircAGFG1 promotes cervical cancer progression via miR-370-3p/RAF1 signaling

Background

In past decades, circular RNAs (circRNAs) have achieved increasing attention because of its regulatory role in different kinds of cancers. However, how circAGFG1 regulates cervical cancer (CC) is still largely undiscovered. This study aims to evaluate the role of a novel circRNAs and related molecular mechanism in CC cells.

Methods

High or low level of circAGFG1 was detected in CC cells or normal cell line with qRT-PCR. The proliferative and migratory abilities of CC cells were assessed with loss-of function assays. The downstream miRNA and mRNA of circAGFG1 were searched out and proved by using bioinformatics analysis and mechanism experiments. Recue assays were designed to confirm the role of circAGFG1/miR-370-3p/RAF1 axis in CC cell activities.

Results

The levels of circAGFG1 was abundant in CC cells in comparison with normal cervical cell End1/E6E7. The inhibitory effect of decreased circAGFG1 level on the proliferative and migratory abilities of CC cells was assessed. CircAGFG1 and miR-370-3p were localized in the cytoplasm and they can interact with each other. Moreover, miR-370-3p was downregulated in CC cells. We also determined the negative effect of miR-370-3p on RAF1. CircAGFG1 could promote RAF1 expression by absorbing miR-370-3p, thereby activating RAF/MEK/ERK pathway. circAGFG1 promoted proliferation and migration of CC cells via enhancing the activity of RAF/MEK/ERK pathway by sponging miR-370-3p and further regulating RAF1.

Conclusion

The results of this study provided new evidence that circAGFG1 acted as a vital regulator in cervical cancer proliferation and migration, giving great promise to apply it as a potential biomarker for diagnosis and therapy in CC treatment.

CircMYO10 promotes osteosarcoma progression by regulating miR-370-3p/RUVBL1 axis to enhance the transcriptional activity of β-catenin/LEF1 complex via effects on chromatin remodeling

Background

CircMYO10 is a circular RNA generated by back-splicing of gene MYO10 and is upregulated in osteosarcoma cell lines, but its functional role in osteosarcoma is still unknown. This study aimed to clarify the mechanism of circMYO10 in osteosarcoma.

Methods

CircMYO10 expression in 10 paired osteosarcoma and chondroma tissues was assessed by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The function of circMYO10/miR-370-3p/RUVBL1 axis was assessed regarding two key characteristics: proliferation and endothelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT). Bioinformatics analysis, western blotting, real-time PCR, fluorescence in situ hybridization, immunoprecipitation, RNA pull-down assays, luciferase reporter assays, chromatin immunoprecipitation, and rescue experiments were used to evaluate the mechanism. Stably transfected MG63 cells were injected via tail vein or subcutaneously into nude mice to assess the role of circMYO10 in vivo.

Results

CircMYO10 was significantly upregulated, while miR-370-3p was downregulated, in osteosarcoma cell lines and human osteosarcoma samples. Silencing circMYO10 inhibited cell proliferation and EMT in vivo and in vitro. Mechanistic investigations revealed that miR-370-3p targets RUVBL1 directly, and inhibits the interaction between RUVBL1 and β-catenin/LEF1 complex while circMYO10 showed a contrary effect via the inhibition of miR-370-3p. RUVBL1 was found to be complexed with chromatin remodeling and histone-modifying factor TIP60, and lymphoid enhancer factor-1 (LEF1) to promote histone H4K16 acetylation (H4K16Ac) in the vicinity of the promoter region of gene C-myc. Chromatin immunoprecipitation methods showed that miR-370-3p sponge promotes H4K16Ac in the indicated region, which is partially abrogated by RUVBL1 small hairpin RNA (shRNA) while circMYO10 showed a contrary result via the inhibition of miR-370-3p. Either miR-370-3p sponge or ShRUVBL1 attenuated circMYO10-induced phenotypes in osteosarcoma cell lines. MiR-370-3p inhibition abrogated the inhibition of proliferation, EMT of osteosarcoma cells in vitro and in vivo seen upon circMYO10 suppression via Wnt/β-catenin signaling.

Conclusions

CircMYO10 promotes osteosarcoma progression by regulating miR-370-3p/RUVBL1 axis to promote chromatin remodeling and thus enhances the transcriptional activity of β-catenin/LEF1 complex, which indicates that circMYO10 may be a potential therapeutic target for osteosarcoma treatment.

CXCL12-regulated miR-370-3p functions as a tumor suppressor gene by targeting HMGA2 in nonfunctional pituitary adenomas

Silencing of noncoding genes within the imprinted DLK1-MEG3 locus is exclusive to human nonfunctional pituitary adenomas (NFPAs), but the exact mechanism is still unclear. This study was designed to demonstrate the impact of CXCL12 on the expression of miRNAs within this locus and phenotypic alterations of NFPAs. Human NFPA samples were collected for screening differentially expressed miRNAs by CXCL12. Target mRNAs of the miRNAs were predicted and verified in vitro. Tumor phenotypic alterations were also tested. Another 51 NFPA samples were enrolled to examine the correlation and clinical features. The expression of miR-370 was decreased by CXCL12 treatment in NFPAs. miR-370-3p was predicted and verified to target HMGA2 as a tumor suppressor gene. Overexpression of HMGA2 inhibited its antitumor function. miR-370-3p was downregulated and HMGA2 was upregulated significantly in High grade NFPAs. In conclusion, the CXCL12/miR-370-3p/HMGA2 signaling pathway is involved in tumor growth and invasiveness of NFPAs.

Increased circulating miR-370-3p regulates steroidogenic factor 1 in endometriosis

Endometriosis is a gynecologic disease common among reproductive-aged women caused by the growth of endometrial tissue outside the uterus. Altered expression of numerous genes and microRNAs has been reported in endometriosis. Steroidogenic factor 1 (SF-1), an essential transcriptional regulator of multiple genes involved in estrogen biosynthesis, is aberrantly increased and plays an important role in the pathogenesis of endometriosis. Here, we show the expression of SF-1 in endometriosis is regulated by miR-370-3p. Sera and tissue were collected from 20 women surgically diagnosed with endometriosis and 26 women without endometriosis. We found that miR-370-3p levels were decreased in the serum of patients with endometriosis while SF-1 mRNA levels were inversely upregulated in endometriotic lesions compared with respective controls. Transfection of primary endometriotic cells with miR-370-3p mimic or inhibitor resulted in the altered expression of SF-1 and SF-1 downstream target genes steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR) and CYP19A1. Overexpression of miR-370-3p inhibited cell proliferation and induced apoptosis in endometriotic cells. This study reveals that miR-370-3p functions as a negative regulator of SF-1 and cell proliferation in endometriotic cells. We suggest a novel therapeutic strategy for controlling SF-1 in endometriosis.

Downregulation of TRAIL-Receptor 1 Increases TGFβ Type II Receptor Expression and TGFβ Signalling Via MicroRNA-370-3p in Pancreatic Cancer Cells

The accumulation of perturbations in signalling pathways resulting in an apoptosis-insensitive phenotype is largely responsible for the desperate prognosis of patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Accumulating evidence suggests that the death receptors TRAIL-R1 and TRAIL-R2 play important roles in PDAC biology by acting as either tumour suppressors through induction of cell death or tumour promoters through induction of pro-inflammatory signalling, invasion and metastasis. TRAIL-R2 can also associate with nuclear proteins and alter the maturation of micro RNAs (miRs). By genome-wide miR profiling and quantitative PCR analyses we now demonstrate that knockdown of TRAIL-R1 in PDAC cells decreased the level of mature miR-370 and led to an increased abundance of the type II receptor for transforming growth factor β (TGFβ). Transfection of cells with an artificial miR-370-3p decreased the levels of TGFβ-RII. We further show that transient expression of the miR-370 mimic decreased TGFβ1-induced expression of SERPINE1 encoding plasminogen activator-inhibitor 1 and partially relieved TGFβ1-induced growth inhibition. Moreover, stable TRAIL-R1 knockdown in Colo357 cells increased TGFβ1-induced SERPINE1 expression and this effect was partially reversed by transient expression of the miR-370 mimic. Finally, after transient knockdown of TRAIL-R1 in Panc1 cells there was a tendency towards enhanced activation of Smad2 and JNK1/2 signalling by exogenous TGFβ1. Taken together, our study reveals that TRAIL-R1 through regulation of miR-370 can decrease the sensitivity of PDAC cells to TGFβ and therefore represents a potential tumour suppressor in late-stage PDAC.

MicroRNA-1231 exerts a tumor suppressor role through regulating the EGFR/PI3K/AKT axis in glioma

PURPOSE

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have been shown to be involved in the initiation and progression of glioma. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms are still unclear.

METHODS

We performed microarray analysis to evaluate miRNA expression levels in 158 glioma tissue samples, and examined miR-1231 levels in glioma samples and healthy brain tissues using qRT-PCR. In vitro analyses were performed using miR-1231 mimics, inhibitors, and siRNA targeting EGFR. We used flow cytometry, CCK-8 assays, and colony formation assays to examine glioma proliferation and cell cycle analysis. A dual luciferase reporter assay was performed to examine miR-1231 regulation of EGFR, and the effect of upregulated miR-1231 was investigated in a subcutaneous GBM model.

RESULTS

We found that miR-1231 expression was decreased in human glioma tissues and negatively correlated with EGFR levels. Moreover, the downregulation of miR-1231 negatively correlated with the clinical stage of human glioma patients. miR-1231 overexpression dramatically downregulated glioma cell proliferation, and suppressed tumor growth in a nude mouse model. Bioinformatics prediction and a luciferase assay confirmed EGFR as a direct target of miR-1231. EGFR overexpression abrogated the suppressive effect of miR-1231 on the PI3K/AKT pathway and G1 arrest.

CONCLUSIONS

Taken together, these results demonstrated that EGFR is a direct target of miR-1231. Our findings suggest that the miR-1231/EGFR axis may be a helpful future diagnostic target for malignant glioma.

Wnt7a activates canonical Wnt signaling, promotes bladder cancer cell invasion, and is suppressed by miR-370-3p

Once urinary bladder cancer (UBC) develops into muscle-invasive bladder cancer, its mortality rate increases dramatically. However, the molecular mechanisms of UBC invasion and metastasis remain largely unknown. Herein, using 5637 UBC cells, we generated two sublines with low (5637 NMI) and high (5637 HMI) invasive capabilities. Mass spectrum analyses revealed that the Wnt family protein Wnt7a is more highly expressed in 5637 HMI cells than in 5637 NMI cells. We also found that increased Wnt7a expression is associated with UBC metastasis and predicted worse clinical outcome in UBC patients. Wnt7a depletion in 5637 HMI and T24 cells reduced UBC cell invasion and decreased levels of active β-catenin and its downstream target genes involved in the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation. Consistently, treating 5637 NMI and J82 cells with recombinant Wnt7a induced cell invasion, EMT, and expression of ECM degradation-associated genes. Moreover, TOP/FOPflash luciferase assays indicated that Wnt7a activated canonical β-catenin signaling in UBC cells, and increased Wnt7a expression was associated with nuclear β-catenin in UBC samples. Wnt7a ablation suppressed matrix metalloproteinase 10 (MMP10) expression, and Wnt7a overexpression increased MMP10 promoter activity through two TCF/LEF promoter sites, confirming that Wnt7a-mediated MMP10 activation is mediated by the canonical Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Of note, the microRNA miR-370-3p directly repressed Wnt7a expression and thereby suppressed UBC cell invasion, which was partially restored by Wnt7a overexpression. Our results have identified an miR-370-3p/Wnt7a axis that controls UBC invasion through canonical Wnt/β-catenin signaling, which may offer prognostic and therapeutic opportunities.

microRNA-544 promoted human osteosarcoma cell proliferation by downregulating AXIN2 expression

microRNAs (miRNAs) perform various oncogenic or tumor suppressor functions in carcinogenesis. Currently, the underlying mechanisms of miRNAs in osteosarcoma (OS) are poorly understood. In the present study, it is demonstrated that expression of miR-544 was markedly upregulated in OS cells and clinical tissues. Furthermore, overexpression of miR-544 enhanced OS cell proliferation in vitro. Bioinformatics analysis indicated that miR-544 may target the 3′-untranslated region of axis formation inhibitor 2, which was validated using luciferase reporter gene assays. The present study demonstrated a vital role for miR-544 in promoting OS cell proliferation, indicating that it may represent a novel prognostic factor or therapeutic target for OS.

WW domain-binding protein 2 acts as an oncogene by modulating the activity of the glycolytic enzyme ENO1 in glioma

WW domain-binding protein 2 (WBP2) has been demonstrated as oncogenic in breast cancer. Many studies have revealed the WBP2 gene as a high-risk gene for leukoariaosis and cerebral white matter lesions is important in the pathologic stage of glioma development. This study aimed to illustrate the underlying mechanism by which WBP2 regulates the process of glioma development. The expression pattern of WBP2 in several tumor cells was determined, clarifying the carcinogenic action of WBP2 in glioma cells. Overexpression of WBP2 in glioma cells promoted cell proliferation and migration, and the number of S-phase cells, whereas the depletion of WBP2 by RNAi-mediated knockdown restrained cell growth and cell cycle progression. Upregulation of WBP2 significantly enhanced the tumorigenic ability of U251 cells in vivo. MS/GST pulldown assay identified α-enolase (ENO1) and Homer protein homolog 3 (Homer3) as novel potent interaction partners of WBP2. Knockdown of ENO1 or Homer3 allowed cell growth and migration to return to normal levels. Furthermore, in vitro and in vivo experiments indicated that the oncogenic role of WBP2 in glioma was through modulating ENO1 and glycolysis activity via the ENO1-PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. Collectively, these results reveal that WBP2 plays a vital role in the occurrence and development of glioma, indicating a target gene for glioblastoma treatment.

Long noncoding RNA H19 promotes transforming growth factor-β-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition by acting as a competing endogenous RNA of miR-370-3p in ovarian cancer cells

Ovarian cancer is a gynecological malignant tumor with a high mortality rate among women, owing to metastatic progression and recurrence. Acquisition of invasiveness is accompanied by the loss of epithelial features and a gain of a mesenchymal phenotype, a process known as epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT). Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) has been implicated in the regulation of EMT. In the present study, we aimed to investigate the role of long noncoding RNA H19 and microRNA-370 (miR-370-3p) in TGF-β-induced EMT. Ovarian cancer cell lines SKOV-3 and OVCAR3 were incubated with different concentrations of TGF-β, and the results showed that TGF-β treatment upregulated H19 and downregulated miR-370-3p. In addition, an H19 knockdown or miR-370-3p overexpression suppressed TGF-β-induced EMT, while H19 overexpression or a miR-370-3p knockdown promoted TGF-β-induced EMT. Mechanistically, H19 could directly bind to miR-370-3p and effectively act as its competing endogenous RNA. Furthermore, we demonstrated that this activity of H19 was involved in its promotion of TGF-β-induced EMT. Thus, our results may provide novel insights into the process of TGF-β-induced EMT.

Molecular Determinants of Malignant Brain Cancers: From Intracellular Alterations to Invasion Mediated by Extracellular Vesicles

Malignant glioma cells invade the surrounding brain parenchyma, by migrating along the blood vessels, thus promoting cancer growth. The biological bases of these activities are grounded in profound alterations of the metabolism and the structural organization of the cells, which consequently acquire the ability to modify the surrounding microenvironment, by altering the extracellular matrix and affecting the properties of the other cells present in the brain, such as normal glial-, endothelial- and immune-cells. Most of the effects on the surrounding environment are probably exerted through the release of a variety of extracellular vesicles (EVs), which contain many different classes of molecules, from genetic material to defined species of lipids and enzymes. EV-associated molecules can be either released into the extracellular matrix (ECM) and/or transferred to neighboring cells: as a consequence, both deep modifications of the recipient cell phenotype and digestion of ECM components are obtained, thus causing cancer propagation, as well as a general brain dysfunction. In this review, we first analyze the main intracellular and extracellular transformations required for glioma cell invasion into the brain parenchyma; then we discuss how these events may be attributed, at least in part, to EVs that, like the pawns of a dramatic chess game with cancer, open the way to the tumor cells themselves.

Exon 3 mutations of CTNNB1 drive tumorigenesis: a review

The canonical Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, an important modulator of progenitor cell proliferation and differentiation, is highly regulated for the maintenance of critical biological homeostasis. Decades of studies in cancer genetics and genomics have demonstrated that multiple genes encoding key proteins in this signaling pathway serve as targets for recurrent mutational alterations. Among these proteins, β-catenin and adenomatosis polyposis coli (APC) are two key nodes. β-catenin contributes in transporting extracellular signals for nuclear programming. Mutations of the CTNNB1 gene that encodes β-catenin occur in a wide spectrum of cancers. These mutations alter the spatial characteristics of the β-catenin protein, leading to drastic reprogramming of the nuclear transcriptional network. Among the outcomes of this reprogramming are increased cell proliferation, enhanced immunosuppression, and disruption of metabolic regulation. Herein we review the current understanding of CTNNB1 mutations, their roles in tumorigenesis and discuss their possible therapeutic implications for cancer.

MicroRNA-370 suppresses the progression and proliferation of human astrocytoma and glioblastoma by negatively regulating β-catenin and causing activation of FOXO3a

Certain microRNAs (miRs) regulate the progression and metastasis of various cancer types. In the present study, the role of miR-370 in the progression and proliferation of human astrocytoma and glioblastoma cells was assessed and the underlying molecular mechanism was investigated. miR-370 levels in clinical specimens of human glioma and peritumoral tissues were determined by reverse-transcription quantitative PCR. Oligonucleotide mimics and inhibitors were transfected into the U-251MG human astrocytoma cell line and the and U-87MG glioblastoma cell line and the cell viability of was determined by an MTT assay. The expression of β-catenin and forkhead box protein (FOX)O3a was determined by western blot analysis. The results revealed that the expression of miR-370 in human glioma tissues was significantly decreased compared with that in peritumoral tissues. The miR-370 levels in patients with grade III/IV gliomas were significantly decreased compared with those in grade I/II. Transfection with miR-370 mimics inhibited the proliferation of U-251MG and U-87MG cells. Furthermore, the miR-370 levels were negatively correlated with β-catenin and positively correlated with nuclear FOXO3a. In conclusion, miR-370 inhibited the proliferation of human glioma cells by regulating the levels of β-catenin and the activation of FOXO3a, suggesting that miR-370 was a tumor suppressor in the progression of human astrocytoma and glioblastoma cells.

MicroRNA-370 inhibits the growth and metastasis of lung cancer by down-regulating epidermal growth factor receptor expression

Abnormal microRNA-370 (miR-370) expression has been frequently reported in several types of cancers, including lung cancer. However, the role and molecular mechanisms of miR-370 in regulating the growth and metastasis of lung cancer have not been clarified. Here, we show higher levels of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), but lower levels of miR-370 expression in most human lung cancer cells and non-tumor cells. Induction of miR-370 over-expression significantly reduced the levels of EGFR expression and the EGFR 3′untranslated region (UTR)-regulated luciferase activity in XWLC-05 and H157 cells, suggesting that miR-370 may bind to the 3′UTR of EGFR mRNA. Compared with the control cells, induction of miR370 overexpression significantly inhibited the proliferation, clone formation capacity, migration and invasion of XWLC-05 and H157 cells while miR-370 inhibitor over-expression enhanced their tumor behaviors in vitro. Furthermore, miR-370 over-expression down-regulated the EGFR and hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-1α expression, and attenuated the extracellular single-regulated kinase (ERK)1/2 and AKT phosphorylation in XWLC-05 and H157 cells. In contrast, miR370 inhibitor over-expression increased the EGFR and HIF-1α expression as well as the ERK1/2 and AKT phosphorylation in XWLC-05 and H157 cells. Moreover, miR-370 over-expression significantly reduced the levels of EGFR and CD31 expression and inhibited the growth and lung metastasis of xenograft NSCLC tumors in mice. Our study indicates that miR-370 may bind to the 3′UTR of EGFR to inhibit EGFR expression and the growth, angiogenesis and metastasis of non-small cell lung cancer by down-regulating the ERK1/2 and AKT signaling.