Plasma microRNA-155-5p is increased among patients with chronic kidney disease and nocturnal hypertension

Genetic Signature of a Healthy Lifestyle: New Horizons for Preventing Noncommunicable Chronic Diseases by Modulating MicroRNA-155

The development and progression of several noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) are associated with microRNA (miR) 155 (miR-155) activation, which promotes inflammation and oxidative stress. In particular, miR-155 regulates nuclear transcription factor-kappa B (NF-κB) by silencing gene expression of proteins involved in NF-κB suppression, such as suppressor of cytokine signaling 1 (SOCS1) and SH-2 containing inositol 5' polyphosphate 1 (SHIP1), increases the production of reactive oxygen species, and suppresses gene expression of antioxidant enzymes through nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) inhibition. In this context, a healthy lifestyle based on a diet rich in nutrients and bioactive compounds as well as regular physical activity may modulate the activity of several miRs. Following this concept, studies involving nutrients, bioactive compounds, and physical activity have been developed to modulate miR-155 activation. This narrative review aims to discuss how a healthy lifestyle based on a diet rich in nutrients, bioactive compounds, and physical activity may modulate the miR-155 pathway and consequently prevent the development and progression of NCDs. Nutrients and bioactive compounds from food may act by inhibiting pathways that promote miR-155 activation such as NF-κB and promote activation of pathways that are associated with the downregulation of miR-155, such as Nrf2, and SOCS1 pathways. Regular physical activity also seems to influence miR-155 levels through an improvement in the immune system during muscle recovery. There is relevant evidence that shows a positive effect of nutrients, bioactive compounds, and physical activity with the modulation of miR-155, which can potentially provide benefits in the clinical setting in cases of NCDs.

MiR-155-5p Attenuates Vascular Smooth Muscle Cell Oxidative Stress and Migration via Inhibiting BACH1 Expression

The malfunction of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) is an initiating factor in the pathogenesis of pathological vascular remodeling, including hypertension-related vascular lesions. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have been implicated in the pathogenesis of VSMC proliferation and migration in numerous cases of cardiovascular remodeling. The evidence for the regulatory role of miR-155-5p in the development of the cardiovascular system has been emerging. However, it was previously unclear whether miR-155-5p participated in the migration of VSMCs under hypertensive conditions. Thus, we aimed to define the exact role and action of miR-155-5p in VSMC migration by hypertension. Here, we detected that the level of miR-155-5p was lower in primary VSMCs from spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs). Its overexpression attenuated, while its depletion accelerated, the migration and oxidative damage of VSMCs from SHRs. Our dual-luciferase reporter assay showed that miRNA-155-5p directly targeted the 3'-untranslated region (3'-UTR) of BTB and CNC homology 1 (BACH1). The miR-155-5p mimic inhibited BACH1 upregulation in SHR VSMCs. By contrast, the deletion of miR-155-5p further elevated the upregulation of BACH1 in SHR-derived VSMCs. Importantly, the overexpression of miR-155-5p and knockdown of BACH1 had synergistic effects on the inhibition of VSMCs in hypertension. Collectively, miR-155-5p attenuates VSMC migration and ameliorates vascular remodeling in SHRs, via suppressing BACH1 expression.

miRNA155-5P participated in DDX3X targeted regulation of pyroptosis to attenuate renal ischemia/reperfusion injury

BACKGROUND

Renal ischemia/reperfusion injury (IRI) induced pathological damage to renal microvessels and tubular epithelial cells through multiple factors. However, studies investigated whether miRNA155-5P targeted DDX3X to attenuate pyroptosis were scarce.

RESULTS

The expression of pyroptosis-related proteins (caspase-1, interleukin-1β (IL-1β), NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3), and IL-18) were up-regulated in the IRI group. Additionally, miR-155-5p was higher in the IRI group comparing with the sham group. The DDX3X was inhibited by the miR-155-5p mimic more than in the other groups. DEAD-box Helicase 3 X-Linked (DDX3X), NLRP3, caspase-1, IL-1β, IL-18, LDH, and pyroptosis rates were higher in all H/R groups than in the control group. These indicators were higher in the miR-155-5p mimic group than in the H/R and the miR-155-5p mimic negative control (NC) group.

CONCLUSIONS

Current findings suggested that miR-155-5p decreased the inflammation involved in pyroptosis by downregulating the DDX3X/NLRP3/caspase-1 pathway.

METHODS

Using the models of IRI in mouse and the hypoxia-reoxygenation (H/R)-induced injury in human renal proximal tubular epithelial cells (HK-2 cells), we analyzed the changes in renal pathology and the expression of factors correlated with pyroptosis and DDX3X. Real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) detected miRNAs and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to detect lactic dehydrogenase activity. The StarBase and luciferase assays examined the specific interplay of DDX3X and miRNA155-5P. In the IRI group, severe renal tissue damage, swelling, and inflammation were examined.

Cardiovascular Disease-Associated MicroRNAs as Novel Biomarkers of First-Trimester Screening for Gestational Diabetes Mellitus in the Absence of Other Pregnancy-Related Complications

We assessed the diagnostic potential of cardiovascular disease-associated microRNAs for the early prediction of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) in singleton pregnancies of Caucasian descent in the absence of other pregnancy-related complications. Whole peripheral venous blood samples were collected within 10 to 13 weeks of gestation. This retrospective study involved all pregnancies diagnosed with only GDM (n = 121) and 80 normal term pregnancies selected with regard to equality of sample storage time. Gene expression of 29 microRNAs was assessed using real-time RT-PCR. Upregulation of 11 microRNAs (miR-1-3p, miR-20a-5p, miR-20b-5p, miR-23a-3p, miR-100-5p, miR-125b-5p, miR-126-3p, miR-181a-5p, miR-195-5p, miR-499a-5p, and miR-574-3p) was observed in pregnancies destinated to develop GDM. Combined screening of all 11 dysregulated microRNAs showed the highest accuracy for the early identification of pregnancies destinated to develop GDM. This screening identified 47.93% of GDM pregnancies at a 10.0% false positive rate (FPR). The predictive model for GDM based on aberrant microRNA expression profile was further improved via the implementation of clinical characteristics (maternal age and BMI at early stages of gestation and an infertility treatment by assisted reproductive technology). Following this, 69.17% of GDM pregnancies were identified at a 10.0% FPR. The effective prediction model specifically for severe GDM requiring administration of therapy involved using a combination of these three clinical characteristics and three microRNA biomarkers (miR-20a-5p, miR-20b-5p, and miR-195-5p). This model identified 78.95% of cases at a 10.0% FPR. The effective prediction model for GDM managed by diet only required the involvement of these three clinical characteristics and eight microRNA biomarkers (miR-1-3p, miR-20a-5p, miR-20b-5p, miR-100-5p, miR-125b-5p, miR-195-5p, miR-499a-5p, and miR-574-3p). With this, the model identified 50.50% of GDM pregnancies managed by diet only at a 10.0% FPR. When other clinical variables such as history of miscarriage, the presence of trombophilic gene mutations, positive first-trimester screening for preeclampsia and/or fetal growth restriction by the Fetal Medicine Foundation algorithm, and family history of diabetes mellitus in first-degree relatives were included in the GDM prediction model, the predictive power was further increased at a 10.0% FPR (72.50% GDM in total, 89.47% GDM requiring therapy, and 56.44% GDM managed by diet only). Cardiovascular disease-associated microRNAs represent promising early biomarkers to be implemented into routine first-trimester screening programs with a very good predictive potential for GDM.

Polyphenols target miRNAs as a therapeutic strategy for diabetic complications

MiRNAs are a large group of non-coding RNAs which participate in different cellular pathways like inflammation and oxidation through transcriptional, post-transcriptional, and epigenetic regulation. In the post-transcriptional regulation, miRNA interacts with the 3'-UTR of mRNAs and prevents their translation. This prevention or dysregulation can be a cause of pathological conditions like diabetic complications. A huge number of studies have revealed the association between miRNAs and diabetic complications, including diabetic nephropathy, cardiomyopathy, neuropathy, retinopathy, and delayed wound healing. To address this issue, recent studies have focused on the use of polyphenols as selective and safe drugs in the treatment of diabetes complications. In this article, we will review the involvement of miRNAs in diabetic complications' occurrence or development. Finally, we will review the latest findings on targeting miRNAs by polyphenols like curcumin, resveratrol, and quercetin for diabetic complications therapy.

The key roles of non-coding RNAs in the pathophysiology of hypertension

Hypertension is a multifactorial condition in which several genetic and environmental elements contribute. Recent investigations have revealed contribution of non-coding region of the transcriptome in this trait. CDKN2B-AS1, AK098656, MEG3, H19, PAXIP1-AS1, TUG1, GAS5, CASC2 and CPS1-IT are among long non-coding RNAs participating in the pathophysiology of hypertension. Several miRNAs have also been found to be implicated in this disorder. miR-296, miR-637, miR-296, miR-637, hsa-miR-361-5p, miR-122-5p, miR-199a-3p, miR-208a-3p, miR-423-5p, miR-223-5p and miR-140-5p are among dysregulated miRNAs in this condition whose application as diagnostic biomarkers for hypertension has been evaluated. Finally, hsa-circ-0005870, hsa_circ_0037911 and hsa_circ_0014243 are examples of dysregulated circular RNAs in hypertensive patients. In the current review, we describe the role of these non-coding RNAs in the pathophysiology of hypertension.

Expression and 7-day time course of circulating microRNAs in septic patients treated with nephrotoxic antibiotic agents

Background

Through regulation of signaling pathways, microRNAs (miRNAs) can be involved in sepsis and associated organ dysfunction. The aims of this study were to track the 7-day time course of blood miRNAs in patients with sepsis treated with vancomycin, gentamicin, or a non-nephrotoxic antibiotic and miRNA associations with neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipokalin (NGAL), creatinine, procalcitonin, interleukin-6, and acute kidney injury (AKI) stage.

Methods

Of 46 adult patients, 7 were on vancomycin, 20 on gentamicin, and 19 on another antibiotic. Blood samples were collected on days 1, 4, and 7 of treatment, and miRNAs were identified using quantitative reverse transcription PCR.

Results

The results showed no relationship between miRNA levels and biochemical variables on day 1. By day 7 of gentamicin treatment miR-15a-5p provided good discrimination between AKI and non-AKI (area under curve, 0.828). In patients taking vancomycin, miR-155-5p and miR-192-5p positively correlated with creatinine and NGAL values, and miR-192-5p and miR-423-5p positively correlated with procalcitonin and interleukin-6 in patients treated with a non-nephrotoxic antibiotic. In patients together we found positive correlation between miR-155-5p and miR-423-5p and all biochemical markers.

Conclusion

The results suggest that these four miRNAs may serve as diagnostic or therapeutic tool in sepsis, renal injury and nephrotoxic treatment.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, ID: NCT04991376. Registered on 27 July 2021.

Extracellular Vesicles in Redox Signaling and Metabolic Regulation in Chronic Kidney Disease

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a world health problem increasing dramatically. The onset of CKD is driven by several mechanisms; among them, metabolic reprogramming and changes in redox signaling play critical roles in the advancement of inflammation and the subsequent fibrosis, common pathologies observed in all forms of CKD. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are cell-derived membrane packages strongly associated with cell-cell communication since they transfer several biomolecules that serve as mediators in redox signaling and metabolic reprogramming in the recipient cells. Recent studies suggest that EVs, especially exosomes, the smallest subtype of EVs, play a fundamental role in spreading renal injury in CKD. Therefore, this review summarizes the current information about EVs and their cargos’ participation in metabolic reprogramming and mitochondrial impairment in CKD and their role in redox signaling changes. Finally, we analyze the effects of these EV-induced changes in the amplification of inflammatory and fibrotic processes in the progression of CKD. Furthermore, the data suggest that the identification of the signaling pathways involved in the release of EVs and their cargo under pathological renal conditions can allow the identification of new possible targets of injury spread, with the goal of preventing CKD progression.

Cardiovascular Disease-Associated MicroRNA Dysregulation during the First Trimester of Gestation in Women with Chronic Hypertension and Normotensive Women Subsequently Developing Gestational Hypertension or Preeclampsia with or without Fetal Growth Restriction

The aim of the study was to assess if cardiovascular disease-associated microRNAs would be able to predict during the early stages of gestation (within 10 to 13 weeks) subsequent onset of hypertensive pregnancy-related complications: gestational hypertension (GH) or preeclampsia (PE). Secondly, the goal of the study was to assess if cardiovascular disease-associated microRNAs would be able to detect the presence of chronic hypertension in early pregnancies. The retrospective study was performed on whole peripheral blood samples collected from singleton Caucasian pregnancies within the period November 2012 to March 2020. The case control study, nested in a cohort, involved all women with chronic hypertension (n = 29), all normotensive women that later developed GH (n = 83) or PE with or without fetal growth restriction (FGR) (n = 66), and 80 controls selected on the base of equal sample storage time. Whole peripheral blood profiling was performed with the selection of 29 cardiovascular disease-associated microRNAs using real-time RT-PCR. Upregulation of miR-1-3p (51.72% at 10.0% FPR) was observed in patients with chronic hypertension only. Upregulation of miR-20a-5p (44.83% and 33.33% at 10.0% FPR) and miR-146a-5p (65.52% and 42.42% at 10.0% FPR) was observed in patients with chronic hypertension and normotensive women with later occurrence of PE. Upregulation of miR-181a-5p was detected in normotensive women subsequently developing GH (22.89% at 10.0% FPR) or PE (40.91% at 10.0% FPR). In a part of women with subsequent onset of PE, upregulation of miR-143-3p (24.24% at 10.0% FPR), miR-145-5p (21.21% at 10.0% FPR), and miR-574-3p (27.27% at 10.0% FPR) was also present. The combination of microRNA biomarkers (miR-20a-5p, miR-143-3p, miR-145-5p, miR-146a-5p, miR-181a-5p, and miR-574-3p) can predict the later occurrence of PE in 48.48% of pregnancies at 10.0% FPR in early stages of gestation. The combination of upregulated microRNA biomarkers (miR-1-3p, miR-20a-5p, and miR-146a-5p) is able to identify 72.41% of pregnancies with chronic hypertension at 10.0% FPR in early stages of gestation. Cardiovascular disease-associated microRNAs represent promising biomarkers with very good diagnostical potential to be implemented into the current first trimester screening program to predict later occurrence of PE with or without FGR. The comparison of the predictive results of the routine first trimester screening for PE and/or FGR based on the criteria of the Fetal Medicine Foundation and the first trimester screening for PE wo/w FGR using a panel of six cardiovascular disease-associated microRNAs only revealed that the detection rate of PE increased 1.45-fold (48.48% vs. 33.33%).

Overexpression of MicroRNA-429 Transgene Into the Renal Medulla Attenuated Salt-Sensitive Hypertension in Dahl S Rats

BACKGROUND

We have previously shown that high salt stimulates the expression of miR-429 in the renal medulla, which induces mRNA decay of HIF prolyl-hydroxylase 2 (PHD2), an enzyme to promote the degradation of hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-1α, and increases the HIF-1α-mediated activation of antihypertensive genes in the renal medulla, consequently promoting extra sodium excretion. Our preliminary results showed that high salt-induced increase of miR-429 was not observed in Dahl S rats. This present study determined whether correction of this impairment in miR-429 would reduce PHD2 levels, increase antihypertensive gene expression in the renal medulla and attenuate salt-sensitive hypertension in Dahl S rats.

METHODS

Lentiviruses encoding rat miR-429 were transfected into the renal medulla in uninephrectomized Dahl S rats. Sodium excretion and blood pressure were then measured.

RESULTS

Transduction of lentiviruses expressing miR-429 into the renal medulla increased miR-429 levels, decreased PHD2 levels, and upregulated HIF-1α target gene NOS-2, which restored the adaptive mechanism to increase the antihypertensive gene after high-salt intake in Dahl S rats. Functionally, overexpression of miR-429 transgene in the renal medulla significantly improved pressure natriuretic response, enhanced urinary sodium excretion, and reduced sodium retention upon extra sodium loading, and consequently, attenuated the salt-sensitive hypertension in Dahl S rats.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that the impaired miR-429-mediated PHD2 inhibition in response to high salt in the renal medulla may represent a novel mechanism for salt-sensitive hypertension in Dahl S rats and that correction of this impairment in miR-429 pathway could be a therapeutic approach for salt-sensitive hypertension.

Relationship between miR-155 expression and clear cell papillary renal cell carcinoma in the dialyzed kidney

INTRODUCTION

Clear cell papillary renal cell carcinoma often develops in the context of the dialyzed kidney (end-stage renal disease). However, the relationship between clear cell papillary renal cell carcinoma and microRNA expression in patients with end-stage renal disease remains unclear.

CASE PRESENTATION

A left renal tumor measuring 22 mm was detected and a radical nephrectomy was performed on a 50-year-old man who had received hemodialysis for the past 6 years. A pathological diagnosis of pT1aNxMx, clear cell papillary renal cell carcinoma was made. We studied the expression of miR-155 in this case and compared it to the expression in nondialysis kidney tissue. The expression level of miR-155 was upregulated in tumor tissue compared with expression levels in the renal cortex for the present case. The expression level of miR-155 in the renal cortex was lower in the present case than in nondialysis kidney tissues.

CONCLUSION

We demonstrated upregulation of miR-155 in a case of clear cell papillary renal cell carcinoma arising from end-stage renal disease.

The Causes and Consequences of miR-503 Dysregulation and Its Impact on Cardiovascular Disease and Cancer

microRNAs (miRs) are short, non-coding RNAs that regulate gene expression by mRNA degradation or translational repression. Accumulated studies have demonstrated that miRs participate in various biological processes including cell differentiation, proliferation, apoptosis, metabolism and development, and the dysregulation of miRs expression are involved in different human diseases, such as neurological, cardiovascular disease and cancer. microRNA-503 (miR-503), one member of miR-16 family, has been studied widely in cardiovascular disease and cancer. In this review, we summarize and discuss the studies of miR-503 in vitro and in vivo, and how miR-503 regulates gene expression from different aspects of pathological processes of diseases, including carcinogenesis, angiogenesis, tissue fibrosis and oxidative stress; We will also discuss the mechanisms of dysregulation of miR-503, and whether miR-503 could be applied as a diagnostic marker or therapeutic target in cardiovascular disease or cancer.

Abnormal diurnal blood pressure profile and hypertension-mediated organ damage in nondiabetic chronic kidney disease G1-G3b patients

OBJECTIVE

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is associated with high cardiovascular risk. Prevalence of hypertension and hypertension-mediated organ damage (HMOD) increases with CKD progression. Nocturnal blood pressure (BP) is a strong predictor of cardiovascular complications. This cross-sectional study investigated the link between the diurnal BP profile and HMOD in nondiabetic CKD G1-G3b patients.

METHODS

We investigated 109 CKD patients and 41 apparently healthy persons as controls. All subjects underwent 24-ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM), echocardiography with left ventricular mass index (LVMI) calculation and pulse wave velocity (PWV) measurement.

RESULTS

Hypertension was present in 84% of CKD patients. SBP-24 and DBP-24, SBP-day and DBP-day did not differ between CKD and controls. Significant differences were found in SBP-night and DBP-night. The nondipping BP profile (SBP-night/SBP-day ratio ≥0.9) was found in 62% of CKD patients and 32% of controls (P < 0.005). Nocturnal hypertension was found in 56% of CKD patients. LVMI was higher in CKD compared to controls, higher in nondipping than dipping CKD patients, and higher in patients with nocturnal hypertension than without nocturnal hypertension. Abnormal left ventricular geometry was found in 72% nondipping and 43% dipping CKD patients. PWV was higher in CKD than in controls, in patients with nocturnal hypertension than without nocturnal hypertension but did not differ between CKD nondippers and dippers.

CONCLUSION

The nondipping BP profile and nocturnal hypertension are associated with HMOD in G1-G3b CKD patients. Hence, there is a need for more extensive use of ABPM for individual risk assessment and personalization of antihypertensive treatment in CKD patients.

Mir-1, miR-122, miR-132, and miR-133 Are Related to Subclinical Aortic Atherosclerosis Associated with Metabolic Syndrome

Previously, miR-1, miR-122, miR-126, miR-132, miR-133, and miR-370 were found to be related to coronary artery disease (CAD) progression. However, their relationship with subclinical atherosclerosis, especially in subjects with metabolic syndrome, is unknown. Therefore, our aim was to determine their relationship with arterial markers of subclinical atherosclerosis. Metabolic syndrome subjects (n = 182) with high cardiovascular risk but without overt cardiovascular disease (CVD) were recruited from the Lithuanian High Cardiovascular Risk (LitHiR) primary prevention program. The ardio-ankle vascular index (CAVI), augmentation index normalized to a heart rate of 75 bpm (AIxHR75), aortic pulse wave velocity (AoPWV), and carotid artery stiffness were assessed. MicroRNAs (miRs) were analyzed in serum. Pearson correlation and a univariate linear regression t-test showed that miR-1, miR-133b, and miR-133a were negatively associated with CAVI mean, whereas miR-122 was positively associated. MiR-1, miR-133b and miR-133a, and miR-145 were negatively associated with AIxHR75. MiR-122 correlated negatively with AoPWV. In multivariate linear regression models, miR-133b and miR-122 predicted CAVImean, miR-133 predicted AIxHR75, and miR-122 predicted AoPWV. MiR-132 predicted right carotid artery stiffness, and miR-1 predicted left carotid artery stiffness. The addition of smoking to miR-133b and miR-122 enhanced the prediction of CAVI. Age and triglycerides enhanced the prediction of AoPWV by miR-122. A cluster of four miRs are related to subclinical atherosclerosis in subjects with metabolic syndrome. Combined, they may have a more substantial diagnostic or prognostic value than any single miR. Future follow-up studies are needed to establish their clinical relevance.

Plasma Exosomes as a Therapeutic Approach Prevent the Cognitive Decline by Inhibiting Tau Protein Hyperphosphorylation in Alzheimer’s Disease Mice

It was well known that circulating plasma exosomes (Pla-Exo) were enriched with multiple microRNAs (miRNAs) and participated in the regulation of biological and pathological process via exchanging information and transferring substance into targeted cells and organs. Therefore, clinical significance of Pla-Exo had been recognized and they functioned as biomarkers for the clinical diagnosis or therapeutic applications to treat diseases. We explored the possibility of using Pla-Exo as a novel therapeutic approach for ameliorating cognitive dysfunction in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) mice. Here we found that Pla-Exo freely crossed the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and was transferred into the hippocampus of mice. After following peritoneal injection (I.P.) of Pla-Exo, survival of neuron cells was enhanced and cognitive disorder was attenuated in okadaic acid (OA) treated mice via deactivating GSK-3β and down-regulating GSK-3β mediated hyperphosphorylation of Tau protein. Finally, some potential exosomal miRNAs were screened by bioinformatics analysis and confirmed their target of GSK-3β. Taken together, all data proved that Pla-Exo contributed to the amelioration of cognitive impairments.

Indoxyl sulfate promotes osteogenic differentiation of vascular smooth muscle cells by miR-155-5p-dependent downregulation of matrix Gla protein via ROS/NF-κB signaling

Vascular calcification (VC) is a major risk factor for increasing cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Indoxyl sulfate (IS), a representative uremic toxin, is closely associated with VC in CKD patients. Matrix Gla protein (MGP) plays pivotal role in VC as a calcification inhibitor. The aim of this work was to explore whether MGP was involved in IS-induced VC. Here, we demonstrated the role of MGP in the IS-induced osteogenic differentiation of human aortic smooth muscle cells (HASMCs). The methods included Von Kossa staining, immunohistochemistry, Alizarin Red staining, quantitative real-time PCR and western blotting. MGP was decreased in calcified arteries both in CKD patients and rats. In vitro, IS suppressed MGP expression in HASMCs by activating ROS/NF-κB signaling in parallel with osteogenic differentiation, which was mitigated by inhibiting ROS and NF-κB with diphenyleneiodonium and Bay11-7082. Further investigation showed that IS induced NF-κB-responsive microRNA (miR)-155-5p mediating MGP downregulation. Overexpression of miR-155-5p with mimics aggravated IS-induced MGP reduction and osteogenic differentiation. In contrast, these conditions were diminished by silencing miR-155-5p. We demonstrate that IS promotes the HASMCs phenotype switch by suppressing MGP expression via ROS/NF-κB/miR-155-5p signaling and provide a new insight for the pathogenesis of IS-induced VC.

Identification of RNA Transcript Makers Associated With Prognosis of Kidney Renal Clear Cell Carcinoma by a Competing Endogenous RNA Network Analysis

Objective

This study aims to identify several RNA transcripts associated with the prognosis of kidney renal clear cell carcinoma (KIRC).

Methods

The differentially expressed mRNAs, lncRNAs, and miRNAs (DEmRNAs, DElncRNAs, and DEmiRNAs) between KIRC cases and controls were screened based on an RNA-seq dataset from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. Subsequently, miRcode, miRDB, and TargetScan database were used to predict interactions between lncRNAs, miRNAs and target mRNAs. Then, a ceRNA network was built using miRNAs-mRNAs and lncRNAs-miRNAs pairs. Functional analysis of mRNAs in ceRNA was performed. Finally, the survival analysis of RNA transcripts in ceRNA network and correlation analysis for key RNA regulators were carried out.

Results

There were 1527 DElncRNAs, 54 DEmiRNAs, and 2321 DEmRNAs. A ceRNA network was constructed among 81 lncRNAs, 9 miRNAs, and 197 mRNAs. Functional analysis showed that numerous mRNAs were significantly associated with regulation of cellular glucuronidation. In addition, 35 lncRNAs, 84 mRNAs and two miRNAs were significantly corelated to the survival of patients with KIRC (P < 0.05). Among them, miRNA-21 and miRNA-155 were negatively related to three lncRNAs (LINC00472, SLC25A5.AS1, and TCL6). Seven mRNA targets of miRNA-21 (FASLG, FGF1, TGFBI, ALX1, SLC30A10, ADCY2, and ABAT) and 12 mRNAs targets of miRNA-155 (STXBP5L, SCG2, SPI1, C12orf40, TYRP1, CTHRC1, TDO2, PTPRQ, TRPM8, ERMP1, CD36, and ST9SIA4) also acted as prognostic biomarkers for KIRC patients.

Conclusion

We screened numerous novel prognosis-related RNA markers for KIRC patients by a ceRNA network analysis, providing deeper understandings of prognostic values of RNA transcripts for KIRC.

Dihydromyricetin promotes autophagy and attenuates renal interstitial fibrosis by regulating miR-155-5p/PTEN signaling in diabetic nephropathy

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is the most common complication of diabetes and is prone to kidney failure. Dihydromyricetin (DHM) has been reported to have a variety of pharmacological activities. This study aims to explore the effect of DHM on DN and the underlying molecular mechanism. An in vivo DN rat model was established. The degree of renal interstitial fibrosis (RIF) was detected by hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining, Masson's trichrome staining, and immunohistochemistry (IHC). In vitro, NRK-52E cells were divided into four groups: normal glucose (NG), high glucose (HG), HG+DHM, and HG+rapamycin (autophagy inhibitor). The levels of autophagy- and fibrosis-related proteins were analyzed by western blotting. The expression of miR-155-5p and phosphatase and tensin homolog deleted on chromosome ten (PTEN) and their relationship were assessed by quantitative reverse transcription (qRT)-PCR and dual luciferase reporter gene assay. Our results showed that RIF was increased in DN rat model and in HG-induced NRK-52E cells. DHM treatment attenuated the increased RIF and also increased autophagy. MiR-155-5p expression was increased, while PTEN expression was decreased in DN rat and cell model, and DHM reversed both effects. Dual luciferase assay showed that PTEN was the target gene of miR-155-5p. DHM inhibited HG-induced fibrosis and promoted autophagy by inhibiting miR-155-5p expression in NRK-52E cells. In addition, DHM promoted autophagy by inhibiting the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway. In conclusion, DHM promotes autophagy and attenuates RIF by regulating the miR-155-5p/PTEN signaling and PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway in DN.

Substantially Altered Expression Profile of Diabetes/Cardiovascular/Cerebrovascular Disease Associated microRNAs in Children Descending from Pregnancy Complicated by Gestational Diabetes Mellitus-One of Several Possible Reasons for an Increased Cardiovascular Risk

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), one of the major pregnancy-related complications, characterized as a transitory form of diabetes induced by insulin resistance accompanied by a low/absent pancreatic beta-cell compensatory adaptation to the increased insulin demand, causes the acute, long-term, and transgenerational health complications. The aim of the study was to assess if alterations in gene expression of microRNAs associated with diabetes/cardiovascular/cerebrovascular diseases are present in whole peripheral blood of children aged 3-11 years descending from GDM complicated pregnancies. A substantially altered microRNA expression profile was found in children descending from GDM complicated pregnancies. Almost all microRNAs with the exception of miR-92a-3p, miR-155-5p, and miR-210-3p were upregulated. The microRNA expression profile also differed between children after normal and GDM complicated pregnancies in relation to the presence of overweight/obesity, prehypertension/hypertension, and/or valve problems and heart defects. Always, screening based on the combination of microRNAs was superior over using individual microRNAs, since at 10.0% false positive rate it was able to identify a large proportion of children with an aberrant microRNA expression profile (88.14% regardless of clinical findings, 75.41% with normal clinical findings, and 96.49% with abnormal clinical findings). In addition, the higher incidence of valve problems and heart defects was found in children with a prior exposure to GDM. The extensive file of predicted targets of all microRNAs aberrantly expressed in children descending from GDM complicated pregnancies indicates that a large group of these genes is involved in ontologies of diabetes/cardiovascular/cerebrovascular diseases. In general, children with a prior exposure to GDM are at higher risk of later development of diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular/cerebrovascular diseases, and would benefit from dispensarisation as well as implementation of primary prevention strategies.

Plasma microRNA-126-3p and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio in patients with chronic kidney disease: relationships to ambulatory 24-h blood pressure

Pro-inflammatory milieu of chronic kidney disease (CKD) results in endothelial damage and contributes to increased cardiovascular risk. The aim of the study was to evaluate association between neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and plasma relative expression of endothelially abundant miR-126-3p with circadian blood pressure (BP) pattern in CKD patients. This single-center observational study involved CKD stage 1-5 patients and healthy age- and sex-matched control subjects. All study participants had 24-h automatic blood pressure measurement (ABPM) performed. Plasma miRNA was quantified by qRT-PCR, in relation to endogenous U6 snRNA. In total, 90 CKD patients (60 ± 14 years, 52% males, 33 renal transplant recipients) and 25 healthy control subjects (55 ± 13 years, 48% males, p > 0.05) were enrolled in the study. We observed a positive correlation between miR-126-3p and average nighttime SBP (rho = 0.27, P = 0.02), average nighttime DBP (rho = 0.32, P = 0.003), night-day SBP ratio (ND-SBP), rho = 0.23, P = 0.03 and night-day DBP ratio (ND-DBP), rho = 0.26, P = 0.02. A positive association was found between NLR and average nighttime SBP (rho = 0.25, P = 0.01), ND-SBP (rho = 0.26, P = 0.006), and ND-DBP (rho = 0.28, P = 0.03). In the multiple regression model, NLR remained an independent predictor of average nighttime SBP (Beta per log change of NLR [95% CI]: 11.2 [1.8-10.6], P = 0.02), whereas miR-126-3p of nighttime DBP (1.88 [0.48; 3.28], p = 0.009), The results of our study point towards a link between both NLR and miR-126-3p and nighttime hypertension in CKD patients.

Association of circulating miR-155 expression level and inflammatory markers with white coat hypertension

Circulating miR-155 play a vital role in hypertension. The aim of the present study was to explore the association of miR-155 with blood pressure and inflammatory markers, and to investigate the predictive value of circulating miR-155 for white coat hypertension (WCH). This cross-sectional study was continuously enrolled 105 subjects and was divided into three groups based on office blood pressure monitoring and 24-h ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM): normal hypertension, WCH, and hypertension group. Circulating miR-155 was assessed by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Spearman correlation coefficient and area under the ROC curve (AUC) were used. We found miR-155 in hypertension group were significantly higher than those in the WCH and normal hypertension group. The level of miR-155 was positively correlated with C-reactive protein, interleukin-6, office systolic blood pressure (SBP), and diastolic blood pressure (DBP), and ABMP parameters (24-h SBP, 24-h DBP, 24-h daytime SBP, 24-h daytime DBP, 24-h nighttime SBP and 24 h nighttime DBP) (all P < 0.05). Circulating miR-155 yielded an AUC of 0.843 (95% CI: 0.753, 0.933; P < 0.001) and 0.832 (95% CI: 0.736, 0.928; P < 0.001) for differing hypertension and WCH from control subjects, respectively. Our results suggested that miR-155 was significantly associated with inflammatory markers, and may become a potential noninvasive marker for WCH detection.

Hypertension in Chronic Kidney Disease: Novel Insights

Management of arterial hypertension in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) remains a major challenge due to its high prevalence and associations with cardiovascular disease (CVD) and CKD progression. Several clinical trials and meta-analyses have demonstrated that aggressive treatment of hypertension in patients with and without CKD lowers the risk of CVD and all-cause mortality, nevertheless the effects of blood pressure (BP) lowering in terms of renal protection or harm remain controversial. Both home and ambulatory BP estimation have shown that patients with CKD display abnormal BP patterns outside of the office and further investigation is required, so as to compare the association of ambulatory versus office BP measurements with hard outcomes and adjust treatment strategies accordingly. Although renin-angiotensin system blockade appears to be beneficial in patients with advanced CKD, especially in the setting of proteinuria, discontinuation of renin-angiotensin system inhibition should be considered in the setting of frequent episodes of acute kidney injury or hypotension while awaiting the results of ongoing trials. In light of the new evidence in favor of renal denervation in arterial hypertension, the indications and benefits of its application in individuals with CKD need to be clarified by future studies. Moreover, the clinical utility of the novel players in the pathophysiology of arterial hypertension and CKD, such as microRNAs and the gut microbiota, either as markers of disease or as therapeutic targets, remains a subject of intensive research.

Expression Profiling and Clinical Significance of Plasma MicroRNAs in Diabetic Nephropathy

AIMS

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) stably and abundantly exist in body fluids and have been considered as novel and noninvasive biomarkers for several diseases. The present study is aimed at investigating the expression profiling and clinical significance of plasma miRNAs in the pathogenesis and progression of diabetic nephropathy (DN).

METHODS

Plasma samples were obtained from 66 DN patients (36 had microalbuminuria and 30 had macroalbuminuria), 36 diabetic patients with normoalbuminuria, and 40 healthy controls. The plasma miRNA profiles were obtained by miRNA low-density array chip and validated by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. The correlations between the differential expression of plasma miRNAs and clinicopathological parameters were explored.

RESULTS

miR-150-5p, miR-155-5p, miR-30e, miR-320e, and miR-3196 were found to be differentially expressed in plasma samples among these three groups: diabetic patients with microalbuminuria, diabetic patients with normoalbuminuria, and healthy controls (P < 0.05). The expression levels of miR-150-5p and miR-155-5p in patients with macroalbuminuria were 2.3-fold (P = 0.001) and 1.5-fold (P = 0.033) higher than patients with microalbuminuria, respectively. However, the expression levels of miR-30e, miR-3196, miR-320, and let-7a-5p were not significantly different between these two groups (P > 0.05). Furthermore, plasma miR-150-5p (P = 0.016, r = -0.460) and miR-155-5p (P = 0.014, r = -0.467) were negatively correlated with the albuminuria excretion rate, while plasma miR-150-5p (P = 0.01, r = 0.318) and miR-155-5p (P = 0.030, r = 0.271) were positively correlated with the estimated glomerular filtration rate.

CONCLUSION

miR-150-5p, miR-155-5p, miR-30e, miR-320e, and miR-3196 are potentially new diagnostic biomarkers for early DN. miR-150-5p and miR-155-5p may be involved in the pathogenesis and progression of DN. Further research is required to verify these findings and clarify the specific molecular mechanisms.

CXCL12 in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease and Healthy Controls: Relationships to Ambulatory 24-Hour Blood Pressure and Echocardiographic Measures

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Chronic kidney disease is a pro-inflammatory condition where the interplay between different regulatory pathways and immune cells mediates an unfavorable remodeling of the vascular wall and myocardial hypertrophy. These mechanisms include the action of CXCL12. The aim of this study is to evaluate the association between serum CXCL12 with left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) and blood pressure control in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients.

METHODS

This single-center observational study involved 90 stable CKD stage 1-5 patients (including 33 renal transplant recipients) and 25 healthy age- and sex-matched control subjects. CXCL12 was quantified by ELISA. 24-h ambulatory blood pressure monitoring was performed in 90 patients and 25 healthy controls. Left ventricular mass index (LVMI) was calculated based on the transthoracic echocardiography measurements in 27 patients out of the CKD population and in the whole control group.

RESULTS

CXCL12 correlated significantly with LVMI by multivariate regression analysis (coefficient B = 0.33, p = 0.02) together with age (B = 0.30, p = 0.03) and gender (B = 0.41, p = 0.003). A positive correlation was observed between CXCL12 and average 24-h systolic blood pressure (SBP) (rho = 0.35, p = 0.001), daytime SBP (rho = 0.35, p = 0.001), and nocturnal SBP (rho = 0.30, p = 0.002). Nocturnal hypertension was frequent (46% of CKD patients).

CONCLUSIONS

The results of our study point towards a link between CXCL12 and LVH as well as blood pressure control among patients with CKD, supporting the thesis that CXCL12 may be regarded as a new potential uremic toxin.