MicroRNA regulation of core apoptosis pathways in cancer. Eur J Cancer. 2011;47:163-174. [PMID: 21145728 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejca.2010.11.005]

Current updates regarding biogenesis, functions and dysregulation of microRNAs in cancer: Innovative approaches for detection using CRISPR/Cas13‑based platforms (Review)

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are short non‑coding RNAs, which perform a key role in cellular differentiation and development. Most human diseases, particularly cancer, are linked to miRNA functional dysregulation implicated in the expression of tumor‑suppressive or oncogenic targets. Cancer hallmarks such as continued proliferative signaling, dodging growth suppressors, invasion and metastasis, triggering angiogenesis, and avoiding cell death have all been demonstrated to be affected by dysregulated miRNAs. Thus, for the treatment of different cancer types, the detection and quantification of this type of RNA is significant. The classical and current methods of RNA detection, including northern blotting, reverse transcription‑quantitative PCR, rolling circle amplification and next‑generation sequencing, may be effective but differ in efficiency and accuracy. Furthermore, these approaches are expensive, and require special instrumentation and expertise. Thus, researchers are constantly looking for more innovative approaches for miRNA detection, which can be advantageous in all aspects. In this regard, an RNA manipulation tool known as the CRISPR and CRISPR‑associated sequence 13 (CRISPR/Cas13) system has been found to be more advantageous in miRNA detection. The Cas13‑based miRNA detection approach is cost effective and requires no special instrumentation or expertise. However, more research and validation are required to confirm the growing body of CRISPR/Cas13‑based research that has identified miRNAs as possible cancer biomarkers for diagnosis and prognosis, and as targets for treatment. In the present review, current updates regarding miRNA biogenesis, structural and functional aspects, and miRNA dysregulation during cancer are described. In addition, novel approaches using the CRISPR/Cas13 system as a next‑generation tool for miRNA detection are discussed. Furthermore, challenges and prospects of CRISPR/Cas13‑based miRNA detection approaches are described.

Highly Stable and Integrable Graphene/Molybdenum Disulfide Heterojunction Field-Effect Transistor-Based miRNA Biosensor

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are important noncoding RNA molecules that participate in gene regulation and are widely associated with the occurrence and development of various cancers. Developing rapid, highly sensitive, low-cost, and highly stable miRNA detection methods is of great significance for clinical diagnosis. Field-effect transistors (FETs) based on two-dimensional (2D) materials have been proven to have great potential in the field of miRNA detection due to their label-free, rapid, highly sensitive, low-power, and portable features. However, biosensors based on 2D material FETs require the application of an external gate voltage in solution, which seriously hinders the integration, miniaturization, and signal stability of the devices. This study proposes a graphene-molybdenum disulfide heterojunction (G/MoS2) FET biosensing platform to detect miRNA-21 and miRNA-155 without the need for an external gate voltage. The results demonstrate a detection time of approximately 30 min, a linear response range spanning from 10 fM to 10 nM, and limits of detection of 6.06 fM for miRNA-21 and 2.59 fM for miRNA-155. Through comparative experiments, the biosensor shows excellent selectivity and can distinguish target miRNAs from nontarget miRNAs. The G/MoS2 FET biosensor developed in this study provides a technical platform for miRNA detection and has a broad application prospect, especially in the early diagnosis of diseases and the screening of biomarkers.

Pathogen-induced apoptosis in echinoderms: A review

Echinoderms possess unique biological traits that make them valuable models in immunology, regeneration, and developmental biology studies. As a class rich in active substances with significant nutritional and medicinal value, echinoderms face threats from marine pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, protozoa, and parasites, which have caused substantial economic losses in echinoderm aquaculture. Echinoderms counteract pathogen invasion through innate immunity and programmed cell death, in particular, with apoptosis being essential for eliminating infected or damaged cells and maintaining homeostasis in many echinoderm cell types. Despite the importance of this process, there is a lack of comprehensive and updated reviews on this topic. This review underscores that echinoderm apoptotic pathways exhibit a complexity comparable to that of vertebrates, featuring proteins with unique domains that may indicate the presence of novel signaling mechanisms. We synthesize current knowledge on how echinoderms utilize diverse transcriptional and post-transcriptional mechanisms to regulate apoptosis in response to pathogen infections and explore how pathogens have evolved strategies to manipulate echinoderm apoptosis, either by inhibiting it to create survival niches or by inducing excessive apoptosis to weaken the host. By elucidating the primary apoptotic pathways in echinoderms and the host-pathogen interactions that modulate these pathways, this review aims to reveal new mechanisms of apoptosis in animal immune defense and provide insights into the evolutionary arms race between hosts and pathogens.

Deciphering the multifaceted role of microRNAs in hepatocellular carcinoma: Integrating literature review and bioinformatics analysis for therapeutic insights

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) poses a significant global health challenge, necessitating innovative therapeutic strategies. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have emerged as pivotal regulators of HCC pathogenesis, influencing key processes such as self-renewal, angiogenesis, glycolysis, autophagy, and metastasis. This article integrates findings from a comprehensive literature review and bioinformatics analysis to elucidate the role of miRNAs in HCC. We discuss how dysregulation of miRNAs can drive HCC initiation, progression, and metastasis by modulating various signaling pathways and target genes. Moreover, leveraging high-throughput technology and bioinformatics tools, we identify key miRNAs involved in multiple cancer hallmarks, offering insights into potential combinatorial therapeutic strategies. Through our analysis considering p-values and signaling pathways associated with key features, we unveil miRNAs with simultaneous roles across critical cancer characteristics, providing a basis for the development of high-performance biomarkers. The microRNAs, miR-34a-5p, miR-373-3p, miR-21-5p, miR-214-5p, miR-195-5p, miR-139-5p were identified to be shared microRNAs in stemness, angiogenesis, glycolysis, autophagy, EMT, and metastasis of HCC. However, challenges such as miRNA stability and delivery hinder the translation of miRNA-based therapeutics into clinical practice. This review underscores the importance of further research to overcome existing barriers and realize the full potential of miRNA-based interventions for HCC management.

Epigenetic modification of ferroptosis by non-coding RNAs in cancer drug resistance

The development of drug resistance remains a major challenge in cancer treatment. Ferroptosis, a unique type of regulated cell death, plays a pivotal role in inhibiting tumour growth, presenting new opportunities in treating chemotherapeutic resistance. Accumulating studies indicate that epigenetic modifications by non-coding RNAs (ncRNA) can determine cancer cell vulnerability to ferroptosis. In this review, we first summarize the role of chemotherapeutic resistance in cancer growth/development. Then, we summarize the core molecular mechanisms of ferroptosis, its upstream epigenetic regulation, and its downstream effects on chemotherapeutic resistance. Finally, we review recent advances in understanding how ncRNAs regulate ferroptosis and from such modulate chemotherapeutic resistance. This review aims to enhance general understanding of the ncRNA-mediated epigenetic regulatory mechanisms which modulate ferroptosis, highlighting the ncRNA-ferroptosis axis as a key druggable target in overcoming chemotherapeutic resistance.

[miRNA Is Involved in the Pathogenesis of Multiple Diseases by Targeting Osteoprotegerin]

As a member of the tumor necrosis factor receptor family, osteoprotegerin (OPG) is highly expressed in adults in the lung, heart, kidney, liver, spleen, thymus, prostate, ovary, small intestines, thyroid gland, lymph nodes, trachea, adrenal gland, the testis, and bone marrow. Together with the receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB (RANK) and the receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand (RANKL), it forms the RANK/RANKL/OPG pathway, which plays an important role in the molecular mechanism of the development of various diseases. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of endogenous non-coding RNAs performing regulatory functions in eukaryotes, with a size of about 20-25 nucleotides. miRNA genes are transcribed into primary transcripts by RNA polymerase, bind to RNA-induced silencing complexes, identify target mRNAs through complementary base pairing, with a single miRNA being capable of targeting hundreds of mRNAs, and influence the expression of many genes through pathways involved in functional interactions. In recent years, a large number of studies have been done to explore the mechanism of action of miRNA in diseases through miRNA isolation, miRNA quantification, miRNA spectrum analysis, miRNA target detection, in vitro and in vivo regulation of miRNA levels, and other technologies. It was found that miRNA can play a key role in the pathogenesis of osteoporosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and other diseases by targeting OPG. The purpose of this review is to explore the interaction between miRNA and OPG in various diseases, and to propose new ideas for studying the mechanism of action of OPG in diseases.

Role of microRNA-146a in cancer development by regulating apoptosis

Despite great advances in diagnostic and treatment options for cancer, like chemotherapy surgery, and radiation therapy it continues to remain a major global health concern. Further research is necessary to find new biomarkers and possible treatment methods for cancer. MicroRNAs (miRNAs), tiny non-coding RNAs found naturally in the body, can influence the activity of several target genes. These genes are often disturbed in diseases like cancer, which perturbs functions like differentiation, cell division, cell cycle, apoptosis and proliferation. MiR-146a is a commonly and widely used miRNA that is often overexpressed in malignant tumors. The expression of miR-146a has been correlated with many pathological and physiological changes in cancer cells, such as the regulation of various cell death paths. It's been established that the control of cell death pathways has a huge influence on cancer progression. To improve our understanding of the interrelationship between miRNAs and cancer cell apoptosis, it's necessary to explore the impact of miRNAs through the alteration in their expression levels. Research has demonstrated that the appearance and spread of cancer can be mitigated by moderating the expression of certain miRNA - a commencement of treatment that presents a hopeful approach in managing cancer. Consequently, it is essential to explore the implications of miR-146a with respect to inducing different forms of tumor cell death, and evaluate its potential to serve as a target for improved chemotherapy outcomes. Through this review, we provide an outline of miR-146a's biogenesis and function, as well as its significant involvement in apoptosis. As well, we investigate the effects of exosomal miR-146a on the promotion of apoptosis in cancer cells and look into how it could possibly help combat chemotherapeutic resistance.

Newly discovered functions of miRNAs in neuropathic pain: Transitioning from recent discoveries to innovative underlying mechanisms

Neuropathic pain is a widespread clinical issue caused by somatosensory nervous system damage, affecting numerous individuals. It poses considerable economic and public health challenges, and managing it can be challenging due to unclear underlying mechanisms. Nevertheless, emerging evidence suggests that neurogenic inflammation and neuroinflammation play a role in developing pain patterns. Emerging evidence suggests that neurogenic inflammation and neuroinflammation play significant roles in developing neuropathic pain within the nervous system. Increased/decreased miRNA expression patterns could affect the progression of neuropathic and inflammatory pain by controlling nerve regeneration, neuroinflammation, and the expression of abnormal ion channels. However, our limited knowledge of miRNA targets hinders a complete grasp of miRNA's functions. Meanwhile, exploring exosomal miRNA, a recently uncovered role, has significantly advanced our comprehension of neuropathic pain's pathophysiology in recent times. In this review, we present a comprehensive overview of the latest miRNA studies and explore the possible ways miRNAs might play a role in the development of neuropathic pain.

MicroRNAs in Anticancer Drugs Hepatotoxicity: From Pathogenic Mechanism and Early Diagnosis to Therapeutic Targeting by Natural Products

Patients receiving cancer therapies experience severe adverse effects, including hepatotoxicity, even at therapeutic doses. Consequently, monitoring patients on cancer therapy for hepatic functioning is necessary to avoid permanent liver damage. Several pathways of anticancer drug-induced hepatotoxicity involve microRNAs (miRNAs) via targeting mRNAs. These short and non-coding RNAs undergo rapid modulation in non-targeted organs due to cancer therapy insults. Recently, there has been an interest for miRNAs as useful and promising biomarkers for monitoring toxicity since they have conserved sequences across species and are cellular-specific, stable, released during injury, and simple to analyze. Herein, we tried to review the literature handling miRNAs as mediators and biomarkers of anticancer drug-induced hepatotoxicity. Natural products and phytochemicals are suggested as safe and effective candidates in treating cancer. There is also an attempt to combine anticancer drugs with natural compounds to enhance their efficiencies and reduce systemic toxicities. We also discussed natural products protecting against chemotherapy hepatotoxicity via modulating miRNAs, given that miRNAs have pathogenic and diagnostic roles in chemotherapy-induced hepatotoxicity and that many natural products can potentially regulate their expression. Future studies should integrate these findings into clinical trials by formulating suitable therapeutic dosages of natural products to target miRNAs involved in anticancer drug hepatotoxicity.

MicroRNAs and their vital role in apoptosis in hepatocellular carcinoma: miRNA-based diagnostic and treatment methods

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most prevalent malignancies with high invasive and metastatic capability. Although significant advances have been made in the treatment of HCC, the overall survival rate of patients is still low. It is essential to explore accurate biomarkers for early diagnosis and prognosis along with therapeutic procedures to increase the survival rate of these patients. Anticancer therapies can contribute to induce apoptosis for the elimination of cancerous cells. However, dysregulated apoptosis and proliferation signaling pathways lead to treatment resistance, a significant challenge in improving efficient therapies. MiRNAs, short non-coding RNAs, play crucial roles in the progression of HCC, which regulate gene expression through post-transcriptional inhibition and targeting mRNA degradation in cancers. Dysregulated expression of multiple miRNAs is associated with numerous biological processes, including cell proliferation, apoptosis, invasion and metastasis, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), angiogenesis, and drug resistance in HCC. This review summarizes the role and potential efficacy of miRNAs in promoting and inhibiting cell proliferation and apoptosis in HCC, as well as the role of miRNAs in therapy resistance in HCC.

Role of non-coding RNAs as new therapeutic targets in regulating the EMT and apoptosis in metastatic gastric and colorectal cancers

Colorectal cancer (CRC) and gastric cancer (GC), are the two most common cancers of the gastrointestinal tract, and are serious health concerns worldwide. The discovery of more effective biomarkers for early diagnosis, and improved patient prognosis is important. Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), including microRNAs (miRNAs) and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), can regulate cellular processes such as apoptosis and the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) leading to progression and resistance of GC and CRC tumors. Moreover these pathways (apoptosis and EMT) may serve as therapeutic targets, to prevent metastasis, and to overcome drug resistance. A subgroup of ncRNAs is common to both GC and CRC tumors, suggesting that they might be used as biomarkers or therapeutic targets. In this review, we highlight some ncRNAs that can regulate EMT and apoptosis as two opposite mechanisms in cancer progression and metastasis in GC and CRC. A better understanding of the biological role of ncRNAs could open up new avenues for the development of personalized treatment plans for GC and CRC patients.

The role of Extracellular Vesicles in glycolytic and lipid metabolic reprogramming of cancer cells: Consequences for drug resistance

In order to adapt to a higher proliferative rate and an increased demand for energy sources, cancer cells rewire their metabolic pathways, a process currently recognized as a hallmark of cancer. Even though the metabolism of glucose is perhaps the most discussed metabolic shift in cancer, lipid metabolic alterations have been recently recognized as relevant players in the growth and proliferation of cancer cells. Importantly, some of these metabolic alterations are reported to induce a drug resistant phenotype in cancer cells. The acquisition of drug resistance traits severely hinders cancer treatment, being currently considered one of the major challenges of the oncological field. Evidence suggests that Extracellular Vesicles (EVs), which play a crucial role in intercellular communication, may act as facilitators of tumour progression, survival and drug resistance by modulating several aspects involved in the metabolism of cancer cells. This review aims to gather and discuss relevant data regarding metabolic reprograming in cancer, particularly involving the glycolytic and lipid alterations, focusing on its influence on drug resistance and highlighting the relevance of EVs as intercellular mediators of this process.

PanomiR: a systems biology framework for analysis of multi-pathway targeting by miRNAs

Charting microRNA (miRNA) regulation across pathways is key to characterizing their function. Yet, no method currently exists that can quantify how miRNAs regulate multiple interconnected pathways or prioritize them for their ability to regulate coordinate transcriptional programs. Existing methods primarily infer one-to-one relationships between miRNAs and pathways using differentially expressed genes. We introduce PanomiR, an in silico framework for studying the interplay of miRNAs and disease functions. PanomiR integrates gene expression, mRNA-miRNA interactions and known biological pathways to reveal coordinated multi-pathway targeting by miRNAs. PanomiR utilizes pathway-activity profiling approaches, a pathway co-expression network and network clustering algorithms to prioritize miRNAs that target broad-scale transcriptional disease phenotypes. It directly resolves differential regulation of pathways, irrespective of their differential gene expression, and captures co-activity to establish functional pathway groupings and the miRNAs that may regulate them. PanomiR uses a systems biology approach to provide broad but precise insights into miRNA-regulated functional programs. It is available at https://bioconductor.org/packages/PanomiR.

Evaluation of the Potential Diagnostic Role of the Lnc-MIAT, miR-29a-3p, and FOXO3a ceRNA Networks as Noninvasive Circulatory Bioindicator in Ductal Carcinoma Breast Cancer

Background

Over the last few decades, tremendous progress has been achieved in the early detection and treatment of breast cancer (BC). However, the prognosis remains unsatisfactory, and the underlying processes of carcinogenesis are still unclear. The purpose of this research was to find out the relationship between myocardial infarction-associated transcript (MIAT), FOXO3a, and miRNA29a-3p and evaluated the expression levels in patients compare with control and their potential as a noninvasive bioindicator in whole blood in BC.

Methods

Whole blood and BC tissue are taken from patients before radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Total RNA was extracted from BC tissue and whole blood to synthesize complementary DNA (cDNA). The expression of MIAT, FOXO3a, and miRNA29a-3p was analyzed by the quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) method and the sensitivity and specificity of them were determined by the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. Bioinformatics analysis was used to understand the connections between MIAT, FOXO3a, and miRNA29a-3p in human BC to develop a ceRNA (competitive endogenous RNA) network.

Results

We identified that in ductal carcinoma BC tissue and whole blood, MIAT and FOXO3a were more highly expressed, whereas miRNA29a-3p was lower compared with those in nontumor samples. There was a positive correlation between the expression levels of MIAT, FOXO3a, and miRNA29a-3p in BC tissues and whole blood. Our results also proposed miRNA29a-3p as a common target between MIAT and FOXO3a, and we showed them as a ceRNA network.

Conclusions

This is the first study that indicates MIAT, FOXO3a, and miRNA29a-3p as a ceRNA network, and their expression was analyzed in both BC tissue and whole blood. As a preliminary assessment, our findings indicate that combined levels of MIAT, FOXO3a, and miR29a-3p may be considered as potential diagnostic bioindicator for BC.

Biophysics at the edge of life and death: radical control of apoptotic mechanisms

Recent studies have furthered our understanding of how dying and living cells interact in different physiological contexts, however the signaling that initiates and mediates apoptosis and apoptosis-induced proliferation are more complex than previously thought. One increasingly important area of study is the biophysical control of apoptosis. In addition to biochemical regulation, biophysical signals (including redox chemistry, bioelectric gradients, acoustic and magnetic stimuli) are also known yet understudied regulators of both cell death and apoptosis-induced proliferation. Mounting evidence suggests biophysical signals may be key targets for therapeutic interventions. This review highlights what is known about the role of biophysical signals in controlling cell death mechanisms during development, regeneration, and carcinogenesis. Since biophysical signals can be controlled spatiotemporally, bypassing the need for genetic manipulation, further investigation may lead to fine-tuned modulation of apoptotic pathways to direct desired therapeutic outcomes.

Revisiting Inhibition Effects of miR-28 as a Metastasis Suppressor in Gastrointestinal Cancers

MicroRNAs are critical epigenetic regulators that can be used as diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic biomarkers for the treatment of various diseases, including gastrointestinal cancers, among a variety of cellular and molecular biomarkers. MiRNAs have also shown oncogenic or tumor suppressor roles in tumor tissue and other cell types. Studies showed that the dysregulation of miR-28 is involved in cell growth and metastasis of gastrointestinal cancers. MiR-28 plays a key role in controlling the physiological processes of cancer cells including growth and proliferation, migration, invasion, apoptosis, and metastasis. Therefore, miR-28 expression patterns can be used to distinguish patient subgroups. Based on the previous studies, miR-28 expression can be a suitable biomarker to detect tumor size and predict histological grade metastasis. In this review, we summarize the inhibitory effects of miR-28 as a metastasis suppressor in gastrointestinal cancers. miR-28 plays a role as a tumor suppressor in gastrointestinal cancers by regulating cancer cell growth, cell differentiation, angiogenesis, and metastasis. As a result, using it as a prognostic, diagnostic, and therapeutic biomarker in the treatment of gastrointestinal cancers can be a way to solve the problems in this field.

Emerging roles of miRNAs in neuropathic pain: From new findings to novel mechanisms

Neuropathic pain, which results from damage to the somatosensory nervous system, is a global clinical condition that affects many people. Neuropathic pain imposes significant economic and public health burdens and is often difficult to manage because the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. However, mounting evidence indicates a role for neurogenic inflammation and neuroinflammation in pain pattern development. There is increasing evidence that the activation of neurogenic inflammation and neuroinflammation in the nervous system contribute to neuropathic pain. Altered miRNA expression profiles might be involved in the pathogenesis of both inflammatory and neuropathic pain by regulating neuroinflammation, nerve regeneration, and abnormal ion channel expression. However, the lack of knowledge about miRNA target genes prevents a full understanding of the biological functions of miRNAs. At the same time, an extensive study on exosomal miRNA, a newly discovered role, has advanced our understanding of the pathophysiology of neuropathic pain in recent years. This section provides a comprehensive overview of the current understanding of miRNA research and discusses the potential mechanisms of miRNAs in neuropathic pain.

Noncoding RNAs Are Promising Therapeutic Targets for Diabetic Retinopathy: An Updated Review (2017-2022)

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is the most common complication of diabetes. It is also the main cause of blindness caused by multicellular damage involving retinal endothelial cells, ganglial cells, and pigment epithelial cells in adults worldwide. Currently available drugs for DR do not meet the clinical needs; thus, new therapeutic targets are warranted. Noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs), a new type of biomarkers, have attracted increased attention in recent years owing to their crucial role in the occurrence and development of DR. NcRNAs mainly include microRNAs, long noncoding RNAs, and circular RNAs, all of which regulate gene and protein expression, as well as multiple biological processes in DR. NcRNAs, can regulate the damage caused by various retinal cells; abnormal changes in the aqueous humor, exosomes, blood, tears, and the formation of new blood vessels. This study reviews the different sources of the three ncRNAs-microRNAs, long noncoding RNAs, and circular RNAs-involved in the pathogenesis of DR and the related drug development progress. Overall, this review improves our understanding of the role of ncRNAs in various retinal cells and offers therapeutic directions and targets for DR treatment.

Gene regulation in animal miRNA biogenesis

miRNAs are a class of noncoding RNAs of approximately 19-22 nucleotides that are widely found in animals, plants, bacteria and even viruses. Dysregulation of the expression profile of miRNAs is importantly linked to the development of diseases. Epigenetic modifications regulate gene expression and control cellular phenotypes. Although miRNAs are used as an epigenetic regulation tool, the biogenesis of miRNAs is also regulated by epigenetic events. Here the authors review the mechanisms and roles of epigenetic modification (DNA methylation, histone modifications), RNA modification and ncRNAs in the biogenesis of miRNAs, aiming to deepen the understanding of the miRNA biogenesis regulatory network.

Exosomal Non-Coding RNAs: New Insights into the Biology of Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Exosomes, extracellular vesicles with a diameter of 40 to 160 nm, are among the smallest extracellular vesicles released by cells. They deliver different cargoes, including proteins, DNAs, and RNAs, and facilitate communication between cells to coordinate a variety of physiological and pathological functions. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the sixth common malignant tumor and the fourth leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. Its molecular mechanism remains largely unknown, and there is a lack of reliable and noninvasive biomarkers for early diagnosis and prognosis prediction. Mounting evidence has shown that exosomes carry a variety of ncRNAs, such as long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), microRNAs (miRNAs), and circular RNAs (circRNAs), which play critical roles in the occurrence and progression of HCC. In this review, we summarize the recent findings of exosomal miRNAs, lncRNAs, and circRNAs in HCC from their impact on the development of HCC to their potential applications in the diagnosis and treatment of HCC.

miR-181a-5p can inhibit the proliferation and promote the differentiation of chicken primary myoblasts

1. Myoblast proliferation and differentiation is one of the most important biological processes in the development of skeletal muscle. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play a crucial role in this process.2. In this study, the expression level of miR-181a-5p was detected, which found that miR-181a-5p was expressed differently in different tissues, different embryonic ages, and different differentiation stages of primary myoblasts in Gushi chickens.3. The effect of miR-181a-5p was further investigated on chicken primary myoblasts (CPMs). The results of cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8), 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine (EdU) and cell cycle showed that miR-181a-5p could inhibit the proliferation of CPM. The miR-181a-5p promoted the expression of MYOD, MYOG, and MYHC. MYHC protein immunofluorescence experiments showed that miR-181a-5p increased the area of myotubes.4. In total, 63 potential target genes of mir-181a-5p in mRNA transcriptome data analysis were identified. Functional enrichment analysis was performed on these target genes, and ASNS, SMYD1, and FOS were found to play regulatory roles in biological processes such as muscle development. It was speculated that miR-181a-5p played a role in myoblast development through these genes.5. In conclusion, miR-181a-5p can inhibit the proliferation of chicken myoblasts and promote the differentiation of chicken myoblasts. This study laid the foundation for further research on the regulatory mechanism of miR-181a-5p in the development of skeletal muscle and the formation of excellent meat quality traits in Gushi chicken.

The role of extracellular vesicles in the transfer of drug resistance competences to cancer cells

Drug resistance remains a major hurdle to successful cancer treatment, being accountable for approximately 90% of cancer-related deaths. In the past years, increasing attention has been given to the role of extracellular vesicles (EVs) in the horizontal transfer of drug resistance in cancer. Indeed, many studies have described the dissemination of therapy resistance traits mediated by EVs, which may be transferred from drug resistant tumor cells to their drug sensitive counterparts. Importantly, different key players of drug resistance have been identified in the cargo of those EVs, such as drug efflux pumps, oncoproteins, antiapoptotic proteins, or microRNAs, among others. Interestingly, the EVs-mediated crosstalk between cells from the tumor microenvironment (TME) and tumor cells has emerged as another important mechanism that leads to cancer cells drug resistance. Recently, the cargo of the TME-derived EVs responsible for the transfer of drug resistance traits has also become a focus of attention. In addition, the possible mechanisms involved in drug sequestration by EVs, likely to contribute to cancer drug resistance, are also described and discussed herein. Despite the latest scientific advances in the field of EVs, this is still a challenging area of research, particularly in the clinical setting. Therefore, further investigation is needed to assess the relevance of EVs to the failure of cancer patients to drug treatment, to identify biomarkers of drug resistance in the EV's cargo, and to develop effective therapeutic strategies to surmount drug resistance. This up-to-date review summarizes relevant literature on the role of EVs in the transfer of drug resistance competences to cancer cells, and the relevance of tumor cells and of TME cells in this process. Finally, this knowledge is integrated with a discussion of possible future clinical applications of EVs as biomarkers of drug resistance.

Analysis of MicroRNA in Bile Cytologic Samples Is Useful for Detection and Diagnosis of Extrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to develop reliable biomarkers that improve the ability of bile cytology to diagnose cholangiocarcinoma vs benign biliary lesions.

METHODS

Many studies indicate that microRNAs (miRNAs) are potential candidates for the early diagnosis of cancer. We analyzed the expression of five tumor-associated miRNAs (miR-31-5p, miR-122-5p, miR-378d, miR-182-5p, and miR-92a-3p) in cytology samples using quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. We collected 52 surgically resected tissue samples, 84 cytologic specimens from smears (53 cases of cancer and 31 cases of noncancer), and 40 residual sediments after smearing for routine cytology at Hiroshima University Hospital.

RESULTS

The expression of miR-31-5p, miR-378d, and miR-122-5p was significantly higher in cancer tissues than those in normal tissues, while miR-182-5p expression was lower. The expression of miR-31-5p, miR-378d, miR-182-5p, and miR-92a-3p was significantly higher in detached cell samples from smears of cholangiocarcinoma cases than in those from noncancer cases.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that the analysis of miRNAs in bile cytologic specimens is a promising auxiliary tool for distinguishing cholangiocarcinoma from benign biliary lesions.

Role of microRNAs in response to cadmium chloride in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the most fatal and aggressive malignancies with a 5-year survival rate less than 9%. Early detection is particularly difficult due to the lack of symptoms even in advanced stages. microRNAs (miRs/miRNAs) are small (~ 18-24 nucleotides), endogenous, non-coding RNAs, which are involved in the pathogenesis of several malignancies including PDAC. Alterations of miR expressions can lead to apoptosis, angiogenesis, and metastasis. The role of environmental pollutants such as cadmium (Cd) in PDAC has been suggested but not fully understood. This study underlines the role of miRs (miR-221, miR-155, miR-126) in response to cadmium chloride (CdCl2) in vitro. Lethal concentration (LC50) values for CdCl2 resulted in a toxicity series of AsPC-1 > HPNE > BxPC-3 > Panc-1 = Panc-10.5. Following the treatment with CdCl2, miR-221 and miR-155 were significantly overexpressed, whereas miR-126 was downregulated. An increase in epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) via the dysregulation of mesenchymal markers such as Wnt-11, E-cadherin, Snail, and Zeb1 was also observed. Hence, this study has provided evidence to suggest that the environmental pollutant Cd can have a significant role in the development of PDAC, suggesting a significant correlation between miRs and Cd exposure during PDAC progression. Further studies are needed to investigate the precise role of miRs in PDAC progression as well as the role of Cd and other environmental pollutants.

ERα inhibits mesenchymal and amoeboidal movement of liver cancer cell via Gα12

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the second most common cancer worldwide, demonstrating aggressiveness and mortality more frequently in men than in women. Despite reports regarding the inhibitory ability of estrogen receptor alpha (ERα, ESR1) in certain cancer progression, targets and the basis of underlying gender disparity in HCC worsening remain elusive. Here, we report the ability of ERα to transcriptionally inhibit G protein subunit alpha 12 (Gα12) responsible for HCC worsening. First, using human samples and public database, the expression of ERα and Gα12 in HCC was examined. Then, quantitative real-time PCR, chromatin immunoprecipitation-assay, luciferase assay, and immunoblottings of liver cancer cell lines confirmed the inhibitory ability of ERα on Gα12 and HCC progression. Gα12 promoted mesenchymal characteristics and amoeboidal movement, which was antagonized by ERα overexpression. Additionally, we found microRNA-141 and -200a as downstream targets of the Gα12 signaling axis for cancer malignancy regulation under the control of ERα. As for in-depth mechanism, PTP4A1 was found to be directly inhibited by microRNA-141 and -200a. Moreover, we found the inhibitory effect of ERα on amoeboidal movement by analyzing the morphology and blebbing of liver cancer cells and the active form of MLC levels. The identified targets and ESR1 levels are inversely correlated in human specimens, as well as with sex-biased survival rates of HCC patients. Collectively, ERα-dependent repression of Gα12 and consequent changes in the Gα12 signaling may explain the gender disparity in HCC, providing pharmacological clues for the control of metastatic HCC. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Impact of cancer metabolism on therapy resistance - Clinical implications

Despite an increasing arsenal of anticancer therapies, many patients continue to have poor outcomes due to the therapeutic failures and tumor relapses. Indeed, the clinical efficacy of anticancer therapies is markedly limited by intrinsic and/or acquired resistance mechanisms that can occur in any tumor type and with any treatment. Thus, there is an urgent clinical need to implement fundamental changes in the tumor treatment paradigm by the development of new experimental strategies that can help to predict the occurrence of clinical drug resistance and to identify alternative therapeutic options. Apart from mutation-driven resistance mechanisms, tumor microenvironment (TME) conditions generate an intratumoral phenotypic heterogeneity that supports disease progression and dismal outcomes. Tumor cell metabolism is a prototypical example of dynamic, heterogeneous, and adaptive phenotypic trait, resulting from the combination of intrinsic [(epi)genetic changes, tissue of origin and differentiation dependency] and extrinsic (oxygen and nutrient availability, metabolic interactions within the TME) factors, enabling cancer cells to survive, metastasize and develop resistance to anticancer therapies. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge regarding metabolism-based mechanisms conferring adaptive resistance to chemo-, radio-and immunotherapies as well as targeted therapies. Furthermore, we report the role of TME-mediated intratumoral metabolic heterogeneity in therapy resistance and how adaptations in amino acid, glucose, and lipid metabolism support the growth of therapy-resistant cancers and/or cellular subpopulations. We also report the intricate interplay between tumor signaling and metabolic pathways in cancer cells and discuss how manipulating key metabolic enzymes and/or providing dietary changes may help to eradicate relapse-sustaining cancer cells. Finally, in the current era of personalized medicine, we describe the strategies that may be applied to implement metabolic profiling for tumor imaging, biomarker identification, selection of tailored treatments and monitoring therapy response during the clinical management of cancer patients.

1,2-Dichloroethane induces apoptosis in the cerebral cortexes of NIH Swiss mice through microRNA-182-5p targeting phospholipase D1 via a mitochondria-dependent pathway

1,2-Dichloroethane (1,2-DCE) is a pervasive environmental pollutant found in ambient and residential air, as well as ground and drinking water. Overexposure to it results in cortex edema, in both animals and humans. 1,2-DCE induces apoptosis in the cerebellum, liver and testes. This promotes the hypothesis that 1,2-DCE may induce apoptosis in the cortex as brain edema progresses. To validate our hypothesis, 40 NIH male mice were exposed to 0, 100, 350, 700 mg/m³ 1,2-DCE by whole-body dynamic inhalation for 28 consecutive days. MicroRNA (miRNA) and mRNA microarray combined with TdT-mediated dUTP nick-end labeling, flow cytometry, and mitochondrial membrane potential (mtΔΨ) measurement were applied to identify the cortex apoptosis pathways' specific responses to 1,2-DCE, in vitro and in vivo. The results showed that 1,2-DCE caused brain edema and increased apoptosis in the mouse cortexes. We confirmed that 1,2-DCE induced increased apoptosis via mitochondrial pathway, both in vitro and in vivo, as evidenced by increased Caspase-3, cleaved Caspase-3, Cytochrome c and Bax expression, and decreased Bcl-2 expression. Additionally, mtΔΨ decreased after 1,2-DCE treatment in vitro. 1,2-DCE exposure increased miR-182-5p and decreased phospholipase D1 (PLD1) in the cerebral cortex of mice. MiR-182-5p overexpression and PLD1 inhibition reduced mtΔΨ and increased astrocyte apoptosis, yet miR-182-5p inhibition alleviated the 1,2-DCE-induced PLD1 down-regulation and the increased apoptosis. Finally, PLD1 was confirmed to be a target of miR-182-5p by luciferase assay. Taken together, our findings indicate that 1,2-DCE exposure induces apoptosis in the cortex via a mitochondria-dependent pathway. This pathway is regulated by a miR-182-5p⊣PLD1 axie.

MiR-BART2-3p targets Unc-51-like kinase 1 and inhibits cell autophagy and migration in Epstein-Barr virus-associated gastric cancer

ULK1 (Unc-51-like kinase 1) is an evolutionarily conserved serine/threonine kinase that plays a central role in the regulation of autophagy. ULK1 is associated with prognosis for metastasis and survival in several tumors. However, its relationship with Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) has not been studied. We found that the expression of ULK1 in EBV-associated gastric cancer cells was lower than that in EBV-negative gastric cancer cells. Further, a luciferase reporter gene assay showed that miR-BART2-3p directly targets ULK1. EBV-miR-BART2-3p attenuated endogenous protein expression levels of some autophagy-related genes. MiR-BART2-3p could thus be involved in the regulation of autophagy. Most important, our research indicates that miR-BART2-3p targets ULK1, resulting in downregulation of epithelial-mesenchymal transformation (EMT) -associated marker proteins and reducing EMT and cell migration. Our study shows that modulation of ULK1 is the likely mechanism by which miR-BART2-3p participates in the regulation of autophagy and cancer cell migration.

The miRNAs involved in prostate cancer chemotherapy response as chemoresistance and chemosensitivity predictors

BACKGROUND

Reliable molecular markers that allow the rational prescription of an effective chemotherapy type for each prostate cancer patient are still needed. Since microRNAs expression is associated with the response to different types of prostate cancer therapy, microRNAs represent a pool of perspective markers of therapy effectiveness comprising chemotherapy.

OBJECTIVES

The available data on microRNAs associated with chemotherapy response (resistance and sensitivity) are summarized and analyzed in the article.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A review of the published data, as well as their analysis by current bioinformatics resources, was conducted. The molecular targets of microRNAs, as well as the reciprocal relationships between the microRNAs and their targets, were studied using the DIANA, STRING, and TransmiR databases. Special attention was dedicated to the mechanisms of prostate cancer chemoresistance development.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

The combined analysis of bioinformatics resources and the available literature indicated that the expression of eight microRNAs that are associated with different responses to chemotherapy have a high potential for the prediction of the prostate cancer chemotherapy response, as found in the experiments and confirmed by the functions of regulated genes.

CONCLUSION

An overview on the published data and bioinformatics resources, with respect to predictive microRNA markers of chemotherapy response, is presented in this review. The selected microRNA and gene panel has a high potential for predicting the chemosensitivity or chemoresistance of prostate cancer and could represent a set of markers for subsequent study using samples of cell-free microRNAs from different patient groups.

Epigenetic Regulation of microRNAs in Cancer: Shortening the Distance from Bench to Bedside

Cancer is a complex disease involving alterations of multiple processes, with both genetic and epigenetic features contributing as core factors to the disease. In recent years, it has become evident that non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), an epigenetic factor, play a key role in the initiation and progression of cancer. MicroRNAs, the most studied non-coding RNAs subtype, are key controllers in a myriad of cellular processes, including proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. Furthermore, the expression of miRNAs is controlled, concomitantly, by other epigenetic factors, such as DNA methylation and histone modifications, resulting in aberrant patterns of expression upon the occurrence of cancer. In this sense, aberrant miRNA landscape evaluation has emerged as a promising strategy for cancer management. In this review, we have focused on the regulation (biogenesis, processing, and dysregulation) of miRNAs and their role as modulators of the epigenetic machinery. We have also highlighted their potential clinical value, such as validated diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers, and their relevant role as chromatin modifiers in cancer therapy.

A comprehensive in vivo screen for anti-apoptotic miRNAs indicates broad capacities for oncogenic synergy

microRNAs (miRNAs) are ~21-22 nucleotide (nt) RNAs that mediate broad post-transcriptional regulatory networks. However, genetic analyses have shown that the phenotypic consequences of deleting individual miRNAs are generally far less overt compared to their misexpression. This suggests that miRNA deregulation may have broader phenotypic impacts during disease situations. We explored this concept in the Drosophila eye, by screening for miRNAs whose misexpression could modify the activity of pro-apoptotic factors. Via unbiased and comprehensive in vivo phenotypic assays, we identify an unexpectedly large set of miRNA hits that can suppress the action of pro-apoptotic genes hid and grim. We utilize secondary assays to validate that a subset of these miRNAs can inhibit irradiation-induced cell death. Since cancer cells might seek to evade apoptosis pathways, we modeled this situation by asking whether activation of anti-apoptotic miRNAs could serve as "second hits". Indeed, while clones of the lethal giant larvae (lgl) tumor suppressor are normally eliminated during larval development, we find that diverse anti-apoptotic miRNAs mediate the survival of lgl mutant clones in third instar larvae. Notably, while certain anti-apoptotic miRNAs can target apoptotic factors, most of our screen hits lack obvious targets in the core apoptosis machinery. These data highlight how a genetic approach can reveal distinct and powerful activities of miRNAs in vivo, including unexpected functional synergies during disease or cancer-relevant settings.

Using Omics Approaches in the Discovery of Biomarkers for Early Diagnosis of Johne's Disease in Sheep and Goats

Simple Summary

Johne’s disease (JD) is caused by Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis (MAP) and is an important and emerging problem in livestock. Most JD research has been carried out on cattle, but interest in the pathogenesis and diagnosis of this disease in sheep and goats is greatest in developing countries. Sheep and goats are also a relevant part of livestock production in Europe and Australia, and these species provide an excellent resource to study and better understand the mechanism of survival of MAP and gain insights into possible approaches to control this disease. This review gives an overview of the literature on paratuberculosis in sheep and goats, highlighting the immunological aspects and the potential for “omics” approaches to identify effective biomarkers for the early detection of infection.

Abstract

Johne’s disease (JD) is caused by Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis (MAP) and is an important and emerging problem in livestock; therefore, its control and prevention is a priority to reduce economic losses and health risks. Most JD research has been carried out on cattle, but interest in the pathogenesis and diagnosis of this disease in sheep and goats is greatest in developing countries. Sheep and goats are also a relevant part of livestock production in Europe and Australia, and these species provide an excellent resource to study and better understand the mechanism of survival of MAP and gain insights into possible approaches to control this disease. This review gives an overview of the literature on paratuberculosis in sheep and goats, highlighting the immunological aspects and the potential for “omics” approaches to identify effective biomarkers for the early detection of infection. As JD has a long incubation period before the disease becomes evident, early diagnosis is important to control the spread of the disease.

β-Glucan: A dual regulator of apoptosis and cell proliferation

β-Glucans are polysaccharides generally obtained from the cell wall of bacteria, fungi, yeasts, and aleurone layer of cereals. β-Glucans are polymers, with β-1,3 glucose as core linear structure, but they differ in their main branch length, linkages and branching patterns, giving rise to high and low-molecular-weight β-glucans. They are well-known cell response modifiers with immune-modulating, nutraceutical and health beneficial effects, including anticancer and pro-apoptotic properties. β-Glucan extracts have shown positive responses in controlling tumor cell proliferation and activation of the immune system. The immunomodulatory action of β-glucans enhances the host's antitumor defense against cancer. In consonance with the above, many studies have shown that β-glucan treatment leads to the induction of apoptotic death of cancer cells. The ability of β-glucans to stimulate apoptotic pathways or the proteins involved in apoptosis prompting a new domain in cancer therapy. β-glucan can be a potential therapeutic agent for the treatment of cancer. However, there is a need to legitimize the β-glucan type, as most of the studies include β-glucan from different sources having different physicochemical properties. The body of literature presented here focuses on the effects of β-glucan on immunomodulation, proliferation, cell death and the possible mechanisms and pathways involved in these processes.

Differential miRNA Expression Profiling Reveals Correlation of miR125b-5p with Persistent Infection of Japanese Encephalitis Virus

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play versatile roles in multiple biological processes. However, little is known about miRNA’s involvement in flavivirus persistent infection. Here, we used an miRNA array analysis of Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV)-infected cells to search for persistent infection-associated miRNAs in comparison to acute infection. Among all differentially expressed miRNAs, the miR-125b-5p is the most significantly increased one. The high level of miR-125b-5p in persistently JEV-infected cells was confirmed by Northern analysis and real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. As soon as the cells established a persistent infection, a significantly high expression of miR-125b-5p was readily observed. Transfecting excess quantities of a miR-125b-5p mimic into acutely infected cells reduced genome replication and virus titers. Host targets of miR125b-5p were analyzed by target prediction algorithms, and six candidates were confirmed by a dual-luciferase reporter assay. These genes were upregulated in the acutely infected cells and sharply declined in the persistently infected cells. The transfection of the miR125b-5p mimic reduced the expression levels of Stat3, Map2k7, and Triap1. Our studies indicated that miR-125b-5p targets both viral and host sequences, suggesting its role in coordinating viral replication and host antiviral responses. This is the first report to characterize the potential roles of miR-125b-5p in persistent JEV infections.

The role of miR-200b/c in balancing EMT and proliferation revealed by an activity reporter

Since their discovery, microRNAs (miRNAs) have been widely studied in almost every aspect of biology and medicine, leading to the identification of important gene regulation circuits and cellular mechanisms. However, investigations are generally focused on the analysis of their downstream targets and biological functions in overexpression and knockdown approaches, while miRNAs endogenous levels and activity remain poorly understood. Here, we used the cellular plasticity-regulating process of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) as a model to show the efficacy of a fluorescent sensor to separate cells with distinct EMT signatures, based on miR-200b/c activity. The system was further combined with a CRISPR-Cas9 screening platform to unbiasedly identify miR-200b/c upstream regulating genes. The sensor allows to infer miRNAs fundamental biological properties, as profiling of sorted cells indicated miR-200b/c as a molecular switch between EMT differentiation and proliferation, and suggested a role for metabolic enzymes in miR-200/EMT regulation. Analysis of miRNAs endogenous levels and activity for in vitro and in vivo applications could lead to a better understanding of their biological role in physiology and disease.

Apoptosis in resistance arteries induced by hydrogen peroxide: greater resilience of endothelium versus smooth muscle

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are implicated in cardiovascular and neurologic disorders including atherosclerosis, heart attack, stroke, and traumatic brain injury. Although oxidative stress can lead to apoptosis of vascular cells, such findings are largely based upon isolated vascular smooth muscle cells (SMCs) and endothelial cells (ECs) studied in culture. Studying intact resistance arteries, we have focused on understanding how SMCs and ECs in the blood vessel wall respond to acute oxidative stress induced by hydrogen peroxide, a ubiquitous, membrane-permeant ROS. We find that apoptosis induced by H₂O₂ is far greater in SMCs compared to ECs. For both cell types, apoptosis is associated with a rise in intracellular calcium concentration ([Ca²⁺]_i) during H₂O₂ exposure. Consistent with their greater death, the rise in [Ca²⁺]_i for SMCs exceeds that in ECs. Finding that disruption of the endothelium increases SMC death, we address how myoendothelial coupling and paracrine signaling attenuate apoptosis. Remarkably, conditions associated with chronic oxidative stress (advanced age, Western-style diet) protect SMCs during H₂O₂ exposure, as does female sex. In light of intracellular Ca²⁺ handling, we consider how glycolytic versus oxidative pathways for ATP production and changes in mitochondrial structure and function impact cellular resilience to H₂O₂-induced apoptosis. Gaining new insight into protective signaling within and between SMCs and ECs of the arterial wall can be applied to promote vascular cell survival (and recovery of blood flow) in tissues subjected to acute oxidative stress as occurs during reperfusion following myocardial infarction and thrombotic stroke.

miR-342-3p Regulates the Proliferation and Apoptosis of NSCLC Cells by Targeting BCL-2

microRNA-342-3p plays an important role in tumor occurrence and development. However, the expression pattern and roles of microRNA-342-3p in nonsmall cell lung cancer remain poorly understood. In the current study, we explored the roles and underlying mechanisms of microRNA-342-3p in nonsmall cell lung cancer via gain- and loss-of-function analyses. We used quantitative reverse-transcription-polymerase chain reaction and western blotting assays to measure the expression levels of microRNA-342-3p in nonsmall-cell lung cancer and B-cell lymphoma-2. Furthermore, we used small interfering RNA and RNA mimics to analyze the functions and underlying mechanisms of microRNA-342-3p in nonsmall cell lung cancer cells. A luciferase reporter assay was performed to evaluate the direct binding site of the 5'-untranslated region of B-cell lymphoma-2 targeted by microRNA-342-3p. We found that the expression of microRNA-342-3p was significantly lower in nonsmall cell lung cancer cells and tissues than in normal cells and tissues. The upregulation of microRNA-342-3p suppressed cell proliferation while promoting apoptosis in H1975, H460, and H226 cells. The overexpression of microRNA-342-3p in nonsmall cell lung cancer cells led to the downregulation of mRNA and protein levels in B-cell lymphoma-2 cells. Thus, B-cell lymphoma-2 was identified as a direct target of microRNA-342-3p. These findings indicate that microRNA-342-3p inhibits the growth of nonsmall cell lung cancer by repressing the expression of B-cell lymphoma-2, which suggests that microRNA-342-3p could be a potential target for the treatment of nonsmall cell lung cancer.

Functional roles of exosomal miRNAs in multi-drug resistance in cancer chemotherapeutics

Recent understanding of different molecular aspects of tumor initiation and progression has led to the discovery of a growing list of drugs. While these drugs have shown promising effects on tumor cells, their widespread usage has been hampered by the acquisition of drug resistance in a subpopulation of tumor cells. A differential pattern in the secretion of specialized vesicles named "exosomes" in drug-resistant cancer cells have recently received much attention. In addition, microRNAs (miRNAs) have been shown to be enriched in exosomes. Exosomal miRNAs (also known as exo-miRs) could be shuttled to recipient cells and play a role in the regulation of post-transcriptional gene expression, which may exert certain effects on cancer drug resistance. Here, we have reviewed the role of exo-miRs in chemotherapeutic resistance in different cancer types. Besides, studies which have focused on predictive role of circulating exo-miRs in cancer drug resistance are reviewed.

miR-9875 functions in antiviral immunity by targeting PDCD6 in mud crab (Scylla paramamosain)

Programmed cell death 6 (PDCD6) is a well-known apoptosis regulator that is involved in the immunity of mammals. However, the effects of miRNA-mediated regulation of PDCD6 expression on apoptosis and virus infection in organisms, especially in marine invertebrates, have not been extensively explored. In this study, PDCD6 of mud crab (Scylla paramamosain) (Sp-PDCD6) was characterized. The results showed that Sp-PDCD6 contains five EF-hands domains and could suppress virus infection via apoptosis promotion. It also presented that Sp-PDCD6 was directly targeted by miR-9875 in vitro and in vivo, miR-9875 served as a positive regulator during the virus invasion. The findings indicated that the miR-9875-PDCD6 pathway possessed fundamental effects on the immune response to virus infection in mud crab. Therefore, our research provided a novel insight into the roles of both miR-9875 and PDCD6 in the regulation of apoptosis and virus defense in mud crab.

The possible role of Sirtuins and microRNAs in hepatocellular carcinoma therapy

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary liver cancer. Sirtuins are NAD+-dependent histone deacetylases that regulate many cellular processes such as proliferation, apoptosis, and metabolism. SIRT (silent information regulator)-1, 5, 6 and 7, members of the mammalian Sirtuin family of proteins (SIRT1-SIRT7), are involved in carcinogenesis, prognosis, metastasis, and chemical resistant of HCC. These proteins act through the deacetylation of tumor suppressor or oncogenic factors. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a group of small non-coding RNAs that down regulate gene expression by targeting the 3'-untranslated region of miRNAs. MiRNAs can function as tumor suppressors or as oncogenes and are involved in progression, differentiation, apoptosis and drug resistance of tumor cells. The focus of this review is to delineate the relationship between some microRNAs and their target, Sirtuins, and to present an overview of their function in HCC as currently understood.

MiRNAs: A Powerful Tool in Deciphering Gynecological Malignancies

Accumulated evidence on the clinical roles of microRNAs (miRNAs) in cancer prevention and control has revealed the emergence of new genetic techniques that have improved the understanding of the mechanisms essential for pathology induction and progression. Comprehension of the modifications and individual differences of miRNAs and their interactions in the pathogenesis of gynecological malignancies, together with an understanding of the phenotypic variations have considerably improved the management of the diagnosis and personalized treatment for different forms of cancer. In recent years, miRNAs have emerged as signaling molecules in biological pathways involved in different categories of cancer and it has been demonstrated that these molecules could regulate cancer-relevant processes, our focus being on malignancies of the gynecologic tract. The aim of this paper is to summarize novel research findings in the literature regarding the parts that miRNAs play in cancer-relevant processes, specifically regarding gynecological malignancy, while emphasizing their pivotal role in the disruption of cancer-related signaling pathways.

MiRNAs-Modulation of Nrf2 Signaling Networks in Regulation Oxidative Stress of Chinese Perch Skeletal Muscle After Fasting Treatment

Nrf2 is an important transcription factor involved in the antioxidant response and is widely expressed in animal tissues. The function of Nrf2 is regulated by its negative regulator Keap1 by inducing its cytoplasmic degradation. Recent studies have suggested that Nrf2 is also regulated post-transcriptionally via miRNAs. However, to date, how miRNAs regulate Nrf2 in fish skeletal muscles is unknown. In this study, the full-length cDNAs with 2398 bp of the Nrf2 was firstly cloned by SMART RACE amplification tools from Chinese perch. The Nrf2 gene structure and its 3'-UTR region for possible miRNA binding sites, as well as its spatial expression profile were assayed. Then, we employed TargetScan Fish tool MiRNAnome to predict putative sites for five miRNAs including miR-181a-5p, MiR-194a, MiR-216a, miR-459-5p, and miR-724. Using qRT-PCR assay, we found that Nrf2 mRNA levels have negative correlation with all five miRNAs expression in muscle of nutritionally deprived fish, and that ectopic expression of miR-181a-5p alone reduces Nrf2 mRNA levels. Luciferase reporter assay in a heterologous cell system revealed that each of the five miRNAs reduced Nrf2 expression, suggesting a direct regulatory mechanism. Moreover, the miR-181a-5p suppression using specific antagomir led to a significant increase in Nrf2 expression in vivo. At the same time, the expression levels of the antioxidant enzymes CAT, ZnSOD, GPx, GSTA, and GSTA genes increased significantly after injecting miR-181a-5p antagomir. Taken together, these findings provide evidence that miRNAs are involved in the Nrf2 signaling networks in regulation of oxidative stress in fish, at least in Chinese perch muscle.

Analysis of microRNA expression profiling during paraquat-induced injury of murine lung alveolar epithelial cells

Paraquat (PQ) as a non-selective heterocyclic herbicide, has been applied worldwide for over a few decades. But PQ is very harmful to humans and rodents. The lung is the main target organ of PQ poisoning. It is an important event that lung epithelial cells are injured during PQ-induced acute lung injury and pulmonary fibrosis. As a regulator of mRNA expression, microRNA (miRNA) may play an important role in the progress. Our study was to investigate the mechanisms of PQ-induced injury of pulmonary epithelial cells through analyzing the profiling of miRNAs and their target genes. As a result, 11 differentially expressed miRNAs were screened, including 1 upregulated miRNA and 10 downregulated miRNAs in PQ-treated murine lung alveolar epithelial cells (MLE-12 cells). The bioinformatic analyses suggested that the target genes of these miRNAs were involved in mitochondrial apoptosis pathway and DNA methylation, and participated in the regulation of PI3K-Akt, mTOR, RAS, TNF, MAPK and other signal pathways which related to oxidative stress and apoptosis. This indicated that miRNAs were an important regulator of oxidative stress and apoptosis during PQ-induced injury of murine lung alveolar epithelial cells. The findings would deepen our understanding of the mechanisms of PQ-induced pulmonary injury and might provide new treatment targets for this disease.

miR-185-5p response to usnic acid suppresses proliferation and regulating apoptosis in breast cancer cell by targeting Bcl2

BACKGROUND

Breast cancer is the most common cancer types among women. Recent researches have focused on determining the efficiency of alternative molecules and miRNAs in breast cancer treatment. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of usnic acid response-miR-185-5p on proliferation in the breast cancer cell and to determine its relationship with apoptosis pathway.

METHODS

The cell proliferation and cell apoptosis rate were significantly increased following the ectopic expression of miR-185-5p in BT-474 cells. Furthermore, the results of cell cycle assay performed by flow cytometry revealed that the transfection with miR-185-5p induced G1/S phase arrest. The apoptosis-related genes expression analysis was performed by qRT-PCR and the direct target of miR-185-5p in BT-474 cells was identified by western blot and luciferase reporter assay.

RESULTS

Our data showed that miR-185-5p can cause significant changes in apoptosis-related genes expression levels, suggesting that cell proliferation was suppressed by miR-185-5p via inducing apoptosis in breast cancer cells. According to western blot results, miR-185-5p lead to decrease BCL2 protein level in BT-474 cells and direct target of miR-185-5p was identified as BCL by luciferase reporter assay.

CONCLUSION

This study revealed that miR-185-5p may be an effective agent in the treatment of breast cancer.

Association of miR-760 with cancer: An overview

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNA molecules of around 22 nucleotides in length. They are crucially involved in the post transcriptional regulation and thus play a significant role in the modulation of different diseases. Several studies have suggested that miRNA expression is dysregulated in various cancers through different mechanisms and the dysregulated miRNA in return affects different cancer hallmarks including cell proliferation, cell death suppression, metastasis and angiogenesis. Compilation of the available miRNA data can be a stimulator for proper understanding of the correlation between the miRNA expression and cancer progression. In this review, we have focussed on the role of miR-760 in the progression of different cancer. MicroRNA-760 (miR-760) has been found to be down regulated in various cancers, thus it can be utilized as a possible prognostic marker for cancer detection. Here, we have tried to fill a gap regarding the role of miR-760 in relation to cervical cancer also. Moreover, unravelling the role of miR-760 in different cancers will enlighten the researchers with proper understanding of biology of miR-760 in regulation of different cancers.

MicroRNAs, DNA damage response and ageing

Ageing is a multifactorial and integrated gradual deterioration affecting the most of biological process of cells. MiRNAs are differentially expressed in the cellular senescence and play important role in regulating of genes expression involved in features of ageing. The perception of miRNAs functions in ageing regulation can be useful in clarifying the mechanisms underlying ageing and designing of therapeutic strategies. The preservation of genomic integrity through DNA damage response (DDR) is related to the process of cellular senescence. The recent studies have shown that miRNAs has directly regulated the expression of numerous proteins in DDR pathways. In this review study, DDR pathways, miRNA biogenesis and functions, current finding on DDR regulations, molecular biology of ageing and the role of miRNAs in these processes have been studied. Finally, a brief explanation about the therapeutic function of miRNAs in ageing regarding its regulation of DDR has been provided.

Construction of Epstein-Bar virus cocktail peptide fused with Fcγ of IgG: as a potential delivery system for vaccine development

Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) associated with several diseases such as contagious mononucleosis chronic active EBV infection, and diverse sorts of malignant tumors. Therefore, using applicable vaccines could be advantageous for public health. Yet, the vaccine has been unavailable to protect from EBV so far. In the current study, to develop a multi-peptide vaccine for EBV and assess its expression in Pichia pastoris yeast system, three immunodominant sequences in glycoprotein (gp) 85, gp350 and latent membrane protein 1 (LMP1) were chosen. To construct fusion peptide, -GGGGS- liker was applied. After cloning the fusion peptide in the pPICZαA expression vector, this recombinant vector processed and transfected into Pichia pastoris host cells. The expression of high level of EBV fusion peptide was confirmed by dot blot and SDS-PAGE procedures. The Pichia pastoris is capable of supporting EBV fusion peptide expression. The application of this fusion peptide as a peptide vaccine to fight EBV is suggested.

Legume lectins: Potential use as a diagnostics and therapeutics against the cancer

Legume lectins are carbohydrate-binding protein and widely distributed in a variety of species of leguminous plants and have drawn increased attention toward cancer. Nowadays, the lectins have been studied for the screening of potential biomarkers which increased its importance in cancer research. Few plant lectins have been shown to destroy cancer cells, suggesting that lectins may have biological potential in cancer treatments. In this review, we present a focused outline of legume lectins in descriptive their complex anti-cancer mechanisms on the bases of their properties of recognition and interacting specifically with carbohydrates binding sites. Existing reports suggested the binding of lectins to cancerous cells with their cell surface markers speculated by histochemistry in vitro and in vivo. In this review, we illuminate the use of legume lectins as a natural source for diagnostics and therapeutics purpose against cancer.

The Fas/FasL Signaling Pathway: Its Role in the Metastatic Process and as a Target for Treating Osteosarcoma Lung Metastases

Understanding how the tumor microenvironment participates in inhibiting or supporting tumor growth is critical for the development of novel therapies. Osteosarcoma (OS) metastasizes almost exclusively to the lung, an organ where Fas ligand (FasL) is constitutively expressed. This chapter focuses on our studies dedicated to the interaction of OS cells with the lung microenvironment. We will summarize our studies conducted over the past 20 years showing the importance of the Fas/FasL signaling pathway to the establishment and progression of OS metastases in the lung. We demonstrated that the FasL⁺ lung microenvironment eliminates Fas-positive (Fas⁺) OS cells that metastasize to the lungs, through apoptosis induced by Fas signaling following interaction of Fas on the tumor cell surface with FasL on the lung epithelial cells. Expression of the Fas receptor on OS cells inversely correlated with the ability of OS cells to form lung metastases. Blocking this pathway interferes with this process, allowing Fas⁺ cells to grow in the lung. By contrast, upregulation of Fas on Fas^- OS cells inhibited their ability to metastasize to the lung. We demonstrated how the FasL⁺ lung microenvironment can be leveraged for therapeutic intent through the upregulation of Fas expression. To this end, we demonstrated that the histone deacetylase inhibitor entinostat upregulated Fas expression on OS cells, reduced their ability to form lung metastases, and induced regression of established micrometastases. Fas expression in OS cells is regulated epigenetically by the microRNA miR-20a. We showed that expressions of Fas and miR-20a are inversely correlated, and that delivery of anti-miR-20a in vivo to mice with established osteosarcoma lung metastases resulted in upregulation of Fas and tumor regression. Therefore, targeting the Fas signaling pathway may present therapeutic opportunities, which target the lung microenvironment for elimination of OS lung metastases. We have also shown that in addition to being critically involved in the metastatic potential, the Fas signaling pathway may also contribute to the efficacy of chemotherapy. We demonstrated that the chemotherapeutic agent gemcitabine (GCB) increased Fas expression in both human and mouse OS cells in vitro. In vivo, aerosol GCB therapy induced upregulation of Fas expression and the regression of established osteosarcoma lung metastases. The therapeutic efficacy of GCB was contingent upon a FasL⁺ lung microenvironment as aerosol GCB had no effect in FasL-deficient mice. Manipulation of Fas expression and the Fas pathway should be considered, as this concept may provide additional novel therapeutic approaches for treating patients with OS lung metastases.