MicroRNA delivery systems in glioma therapy and perspectives: A systematic review

Paper-based degradable, label-free microRNA sensing platform based on oxide thin-film transistor arrays

MicroRNAs have started being used as an effective marker in early diagnosis and preoperative monitoring of cancers in recent years. Traditional microRNA testing technology, such as quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and various fluorescent and colorimetric assays, often suffer from complicated operations and limited sensitivity. They also produce significant electronic waste posing threats to human health and environment. Here, we propose a degradable biosensor using indium-gallium-zinc oxide (IGZO) thin-film transistor (TFT) arrays for rapid and highly sensitive detection of microRNAs from glioma exosome extracts (g-miRNAs). The IGZO transistor arrays fabricated on nanofibrillated cellulose paper exhibit high electronic performance with a current on/off ratio >1.5 × 106, a mobility of 9.6 cm2 V-1·s-1, a subthreshold swing <0.5 V·dec-1, and excellent bias stress stability. Specific DNA probes in the IGZO channel bind selectively with g-miRNA targets to form DNA-RNA double strands, offering high specificity even when coexisting with high concentrations of nonspecific microRNAs. The inherent negative charges in DNA and g-miRNA molecules sensitively modulate the IGZO channel conductivity, leading to a positive shift of threshold voltage and decrease of source-drain current. These changes are linearly correlated with microRNA concentrations from 1 fM to 100 pM, with a detection limitation of 350 aM. Furthermore, the paper-based IGZO transistor array nearly completely dissolves in a NaOH solution after 300 min. The proposed approach combines easy-to-operate, point-of-care microRNA testing with lightweight, low-cost, biocompatible, and degradable devices, showing great promise for early diagnosis of glioma and most likely also other tumors.

Intelligent molecular cleavage and dual-signal relay amplification ratiometric strategy for high-sensitivity analysis and dynamic monitoring of exosomal RNA in glioma

Exosomal RNA has emerged as a promising biomarker for glioblastoma (GBM) due to its exceptional stability in biofluids and strong correlation with tumor progression. In this study, we present an innovative intelligent molecular cleavage and dual-signal relay amplification-based ratiometric (ISR) strategy for high-sensitivity monitoring and dynamic analysis of exosomal RNA in glioma. The core mechanism is based on a hollow duplex structure that effectively prevents premature cleavage by duplex-specific nuclease (DSN), ensuring both the accuracy and stability of the detection system. Upon the introduction of the target microRNA (miRNA), one strand of the hollow duplex is displaced, forming a miRNA-DNA duplex that serves as a substrate for DSN, initiating target recycling and signal amplification. This dynamic process, coupled with dual-signal relay amplification, significantly enhances both sensitivity and stability, even at low miRNA concentrations. Our ratiometric approach substantially improves detection accuracy by comparing dual signal outputs. We further demonstrate the capability of real-time tracking of exosomal RNA dynamics, enabling precise monitoring of miRNA fluctuations over time. The practical applicability of our ISR strategy was validated by accurately detecting exosomal miRNA levels in clinical serum samples from glioblastoma patients, distinguishing them from healthy controls with high precision. Our method represents a significant advancement in early cancer detection and disease monitoring, with broad implications for precision medicine and the development of point-of-care diagnostic tools. Looking ahead, the ISR strategy holds great potential for monitoring a wide range of diseases, offering new opportunities for personalized diagnostics and therapeutic strategies.

A fluorescent signal amplification strategy via host-guest recognition for cortisol detection

Psychological stress is a major contributor to individual health disparities. Accurate and quantitative detection of stress markers is crucial preventing mental health related problems. Supramolecular chemistry is widely used in drug delivery, catalysis, sensors and other applications. However, due to the difficulty of host functionalization such as cyclodextrins and solid-state pillar[n], it is still a challenge to directly realize the detection of guests through host-guest recognition behavior. Here, we reported an atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) fluorescent biosensor for direct and selective detection of guest molecule stress marker cortisol, translating molecular recognition behavior into quantifiable detection signals. Realizes quantitative chemical detection and builds a portable and affordable sensing platform for quantitative detection of target molecules without complex cross-linking steps. Overcomes the disadvantages of traditional methods that require the use of antibodies or are difficult to functionalize during the host-guest recognition process. This ATRP fluorescent biosensor was fabricated by employing zinc phthalocyanine (ZnPc) as a photocatalyst under 630 nm wavelength radiation, β-CD-Br15 as a macromolecular initiator, and fluorescein O-methacrylate (FMA-O) as a monomer for polymerization. The system provides ultra-high sensitivity for the detection of cortisol (limit of detection 0.47 ng/mL) and specificity for the detection of cortisol in the presence of interfering substances such as progesterone and urea. Selective and real sample experiments confirm the specificity and scalability of this mechanism can also be customized by the rational design of the host-guest complex to quantitatively detect various molecules. This study confirms the feasibility of using a cyclodextrin-centered macromolecular initiator as a capture and label-free fluorescent biosensor for cortisol, a stress biomarker.

MicroRNA-143 overexpression enhances the chemosensitivity of A172 glioblastoma cells to carmustine

As an aggressive malignancy, glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most common type of brain tumor. The existing treatments have shown limited achievement in increasing the overall survival of patients. Therefore, identifying the key molecules involved in GBM will provide new potential therapeutic targets. Carmustine is an alkylating agent used as a supplementary therapeutic option for GBM. However, the extensive use of carmustine has been limited by uncertainty about its efficacy. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are essential in post-transcriptional gene regulation. Many aberrantly expressed miRNAs have been detected in various types of human cancer, including GBM. In this study, we evaluated the potential therapeutic effect of miR-143 in combination with carmustine on GBM cells. A172 cells were transfected with miR-143 mimics and then treated with carmustine. To assess the cell viability, apoptosis induction, and cell cycle progression, the MTT assay, Annexin V/PI apoptosis assay, and flow cytometry were used, respectively. Furthermore, qRT-PCR assay was applied to evaluate the expression level of genes related to apoptosis. The obtained results evidenced that miR-143 transfection could promote the sensitivity of A172 cells to carmustine and enhance carmustine-induced apoptosis via modulating the expression levels of Caspase-3, Caspase-9, Bax, and Bcl-2. Also, our results revealed that combination therapy could effectively diminish cell cycle progression in A172 cells. In conclusion, these results confirmed that miR-143 could enhance carmustine-mediated suppression of cell proliferation and improve the chemosensitivity of A172 cells to this chemotherapeutic agent. Therefore, miR-143 combination therapy may be a promising GBM treatment approach.

Glucose metabolism in glioma: an emerging sight with ncRNAs

Glioma is a primary brain tumor that grows quickly, has an unfavorable prognosis, and can spread intracerebrally. Glioma cells rely on glucose as the major energy source, and glycolysis plays a critical role in tumorigenesis and progression. Substrate utilization shifts throughout glioma progression to facilitate energy generation and biomass accumulation. This metabolic reprogramming promotes glioma cell proliferation and metastasis and ultimately decreases the efficacy of conventional treatments. Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are involved in several glucose metabolism pathways during tumor initiation and progression. These RNAs influence cell viability and glucose metabolism by modulating the expression of key genes of the glycolytic pathway. They can directly or indirectly affect glycolysis in glioma cells by influencing the transcription and post-transcriptional regulation of oncogenes and suppressor genes. In this review, we discussed the role of ncRNAs in the metabolic reprogramming of glioma cells and tumor microenvironments and their abnormal expression in the glucometabolic pathway in glioma. In addition, we consolidated the existing theoretical knowledge to facilitate the use of this emerging class of biomarkers as biological indicators and potential therapeutic targets for glioma.

The potential of miRNA-based approaches in glioblastoma: An update in current advances and future perspectives

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common malignant central nervous system tumor. The emerging field of epigenetics stands out as particularly promising. Notably, the discovery of micro RNAs (miRNAs) has paved the way for advancements in diagnosing, treating, and prognosticating patients with brain tumors. We aim to provide an overview of the emergence of miRNAs in GBM and their potential role in the multifaceted management of this disease. We discuss the current state of the art regarding miRNAs and GBM. We performed a narrative review using the MEDLINE/PUBMED database to retrieve peer-reviewed articles related to the use of miRNA approaches for the treatment of GBMs. MiRNAs are intrinsic non-coding RNA molecules that regulate gene expression mainly through post-transcriptional mechanisms. The deregulation of some of these molecules is related to the pathogenesis of GBM. The inclusion of molecular characterization for the diagnosis of brain tumors and the advent of less-invasive diagnostic methods such as liquid biopsies, highlights the potential of these molecules as biomarkers for guiding the management of brain tumors such as GBM. Importantly, there is a need for more studies to better examine the application of these novel molecules. The constantly changing characterization and approach to the diagnosis and management of brain tumors broaden the possibilities for the molecular inclusion of novel epigenetic molecules, such as miRNAs, for a better understanding of this disease.

The neuroprotective effect of quercetin nanoparticles in the therapy of neuronal damage stimulated by acrolein

A gradual loss of neuronal function or structure causes neurodegenerative disorders such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's. Neurological damage might cause cell death. Acrolein is a high-risk air and water contaminant that causes neurodegenerative disorders. Quercetin has several strategies for treating neurodegenerative disorders but has limited bioavailability inside the body. One of the hypotheses offered to improve quercetin's bioavailability is to convert it into quercetin nanoparticles. This study aims to comprehend the immunohistochemical devastation that might arise in the cerebellum because of acrolein treatment. Furthermore, the protective and ameliorative roles of quercetin nanoparticles against oxidative stress and neurotoxicity induced in mice by acrolein were assessed. Ninety male albino rats weighing 120 to 200 g were used in the present investigation. The animals were split up into the following six groups: the control group, the acrolein-treated group: animals were given acrolein (3 mg/kg) for 30 days, quercetin nanoparticles treated group: animals were given quercetin nanoparticles (30 mg/kg) for 30 days. The administration of acrolein was found to be connected to immunohistochemical abnormalities in the cerebellum. Marked differences were observed in Bax, Bcl-2, TNF-α, and GFAP expressions in the cerebellum. Treatment of rats with quercetin nanoparticles either before or after treatment with acrolein has been found to preserve the cerebellum tissues from the toxic impacts and oxidative stress induced by acrolein. This may open the door to more nanomedicine studies and a new avenue for employing nanoparticles as a therapeutic intervention in neurodegenerative illnesses.

MicroRNA137-loaded lipid nanoparticles regulate synaptic proteins in the prefrontal cortex

Genome-wide association studies indicate that allele variants in MIR137, the host gene of microRNA137 (miR137), confer an increased risk of schizophrenia (SCZ). Aberrant expression of miR137 and its targets, many of which regulate synaptic functioning, are also associated with an increased risk of SCZ. Thus, miR137 represents an attractive target aimed at correcting the molecular basis for synaptic dysfunction in individuals with high genetic risk for SCZ. Advancements in nanotechnology utilize lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) to transport and deliver therapeutic RNA. However, there remains a gap in using LNPs to regulate gene and protein expression in the brain. To study the delivery of nucleic acids by LNPs to the brain, we found that LNPs released miR137 cargo and inhibited target transcripts of interest in neuroblastoma cells. Biodistribution of LNPs loaded with firefly luciferase mRNA remained localized to the mouse prefrontal cortex (PFC) injection site without circulating to off-target organs. LNPs encapsulating Cre mRNA preferentially co-expressed in neuronal over microglial or astrocytic cells. Using quantitative proteomics, we found miR137 modulated glutamatergic synaptic protein networks that are commonly dysregulated in SCZ. These studies support engineering the next generation of brain-specific LNPs to deliver RNA therapeutics and improve symptoms of central nervous system disorders.

The Significant Role of microRNAs in Gliomas Angiogenesis: A Particular Focus on Molecular Mechanisms and Opportunities for Clinical Application

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are non-coding RNAs with only 20-22 nucleic acids that inhibit gene transcription and translation by binding to mRNA. MiRNAs have a diverse set of target genes and can alter most physiological processes, including cell cycle checkpoints, cell survival, and cell death mechanisms, affecting the growth, development, and invasion of various cancers, including gliomas. So optimum management of miRNA expression is essential for preserving a normal biological environment. Due to their small size, stability, and capability of specifically targeting oncogenes, miRNAs have emerged as a promising marker and new biopharmaceutical targeted therapy for glioma patients. This review focuses on the most common miRNAs associated with gliomagenesis and development by controlling glioma-determining markers such as angiogenesis. We also summarized the recent research about miRNA effects on signaling pathways, their mechanistic role and cellular targets in the development of gliomas angiogenesis. Strategies for miRNA-based therapeutic targets, as well as limitations in clinical applications, are also discussed.

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

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

Determining the Research Priorities for Adult Primary Brain Tumours in Australia and New Zealand: A Delphi Study with Consumers, Health Professionals, and Researchers

The aim of this project was to determine research priorities, barriers, and enablers for adult primary brain tumour research in Australia and New Zealand. Consumers, health professionals, and researchers were invited to participate in a two-phase modified Delphi study. Phase 1 comprised an initial online survey (n = 91) and then focus groups (n = 29) which identified 60 key research topics, 26 barriers, and 32 enablers. Phase 2 comprised two online surveys to (1) reduce the list to 37 research priorities which achieved consensus (>75% 2-point agreement) and had high mean importance ratings (n = 116 participants) and (2) determine the most important priorities, barriers, and enablers (n = 90 participants). The top ten ranked research priorities for the overall sample and sub-groups (consumers, health professionals, and researchers) were identified. Priorities focused on: tumour biology, pre-clinical research, clinical and translational research, and supportive care. Variations were seen between sub-groups. The top ten barriers to conducting brain tumour research related to funding and resources, accessibility and awareness of research, collaboration, and process. The top ten research enablers were funding and resources, collaboration, and workforce. The broad list of research priorities identified by this Delphi study, together with how consumers, health professionals, and researchers prioritised items differently, and provides an evidence-based research agenda for brain tumour research that is needed across a wide range of areas.

Precise Control of Glioma Cell Apoptosis Induced by Micro-Plasma-Activated Water (μ-PAW)

To verify the existence of plasma with the potential to kill tumor cells, this paper designed a novel helium (He) micro-plasma jet array device and detected the concentration of typical long-lived reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS) with oxidative activity generated by it. The paper described a new He micro-plasma jet array device consisting of nine flexible quartz capillaries with an inner diameter of 75 μm arranged in a 3 × 3 array. Sterilized ultrapure water (up water) was first treated with the He micro-plasma jet array device to activate it to form enriched RONS micro-plasma-activated water (μ-PAW), and then μ-PAW was added to the cell culture medium (with cells) to observe the proliferation of human glioma cells. The concentration of long-lived RONS, such as nitrate (NO₃^-), was detected according to Beer-Lambert's law in combination with UV spectrophotometry as well as a color development method. The MTT Cell Proliferation and Cytotoxicity Assay Kit combined with the Hoechst Staining Kit were used to assess the proliferation status of the cells. The results showed that the range of RONS concentration variation could be controlled in the order of micromoles (µmol), while plasma-induced tumor cell death is apoptosis that does not affect the surrounding environment.