MiRNA199a-3p suppresses tumor growth, migration, invasion and angiogenesis in hepatocellular carcinoma by targeting VEGFA, VEGFR1, VEGFR2, HGF and MMP2

Exosomal miRNA combined with anti-inflammatory hyaluronic acid-based 3D bioprinted hepatic patch promotes metabolic reprogramming in NAFLD-mediated fibrosis

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a complex metabolic disorder, where the underlying molecular mechanisms are mostly not well-understood and therefore, warrants the need for therapeutic interventions targeting several metabolic pathways as a unified response. Of late, promising outcomes have been observed with mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes. However, reduced bioavailability due to systemic delivery and the need for repeated fresh isolation hinders their feasibility for clinical applications. In this regard, an 'off-the-shelf' 3D bioprinted hyaluronic acid-based hepatic patch to deliver encapsulated exosomes alone/or with hepatocytes (as dual-therapy) is developed as a holistic approach for ameliorating the disease condition and promoting tissue regeneration. The bioprinted hepatic patch demonstrated sustained and localized release of exosomes (∼82 % in 21 days), and healthy liver tissue-like mechanical properties while being biocompatible and biodegradable. Assessment in NAFLD rat models displayed alleviation of the altered biochemical parameters such as fat deposition, deranged liver functions, disrupted lipid, glucose, and insulin metabolism along with a reduction in localized inflammation, and associated liver fibrosis. The study suggests that a synergistic effect between the miRNA population of released exosomes, cell therapy, and the bioprinted matrix materials is crucial in targeting multiple complex metabolic pathways associated with the severity of the disease.

MicroRNA as Key Players in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Insights into Their Role in Metastasis

Liver cancer or hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains the most common cancer in global epidemiology. Both the frequency and fatality of this malignancy have shown an upward trend over recent decades. Liver cancer is a significant concern due to its propensity for both intrahepatic and extrahepatic metastasis. Liver cancer metastasis is a multifaceted process characterized by cell detachment from the bulk tumor, modulation of cellular motility and invasiveness, enhanced proliferation, avoidance of the immune system, and spread either via lymphatic or blood vessels. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding ribonucleic acids (RNAs) playing a crucial function in the intricate mechanisms of tumor metastasis. A number of miRNAs can either increase or reduce metastasis via several mechanisms, such as control of motility, proliferation, attack by the immune system, cancer stem cell properties, altering the microenvironment, and the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Besides, two other types of non-coding RNAs, such as long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and circular RNAs (circRNAs) can competitively bind to endogenous miRNAs. This competition results in the impaired ability of the miRNAs to inhibit the expression of the specific messenger RNAs (mRNAs) that are targeted. Increasing evidence has shown that the regulatory axis comprising circRNA/lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA is correlated with the regulation of HCC metastasis. This review seeks to present a thorough summary of recent research on miRNAs in HCC, and their roles in the cellular processes of EMT, invasion and migration, as well as the metastasis of malignant cells. Finally, we discuss the function of the lncRNA/circRNA-miRNA-mRNA network as a crucial modulator of carcinogenesis and the regulation of signaling pathways or genes that are relevant to the metastasis of HCC. These findings have the potential to offer valuable insight into the discovery of novel therapeutic approaches for management of liver cancer metastasis.

The natural polyphenol fisetin in atherosclerosis prevention: a mechanistic review

The incidence and mortality rate of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) is increasing yearly worldwide. Recently, a growing body of evidence has unveiled the anti-atherosclerotic properties of fisetin, a natural polyphenol compound. In this article, we reviewed the pharmacologic actions of fisetin on experimental atherosclerosis and its protective effects on disease-relevant cell types such as endothelial cells, macrophages, vascular smooth muscle cells, and platelets. Based on its profound cardiovascular actions, fisetin holds potential for clinical translation and could be developed as a potential therapeutic option for atherosclerosis and its related complications. Large-scale randomized clinical trials are warranted to ascertain the safety and efficacy of fisetin in patients with or high risk for ASCVD.

microRNAs: critical targets for treating rheumatoid arthritis angiogenesis

Vascular neogenesis, an early event in the development of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) inflammation, is critical for the formation of synovial vascular networks and plays a key role in the progression and persistence of chronic RA inflammation. microRNAs (miRNAs), a class of single-stranded, non-coding RNAs with approximately 21-23 nucleotides in length, regulate gene expression by binding to the 3' untranslated region (3'-UTR) of specific mRNAs. Increasing evidence suggests that miRNAs are differently expressed in diseases associated with vascular neogenesis and play a crucial role in disease-related vascular neogenesis. However, current studies are not sufficient and further experimental studies are needed to validate and establish the relationship between miRNAs and diseases associated with vascular neogenesis, and to determine the specific role of miRNAs in vascular development pathways. To better treat vascular neogenesis in diseases such as RA, we need additional studies on the role of miRNAs and their target genes in vascular development, and to provide more strategic references. In addition, future studies can use modern biotechnological methods such as proteomics and transcriptomics to investigate the expression and regulatory mechanisms of miRNAs, providing a more comprehensive and in-depth research basis for the treatment of related diseases such as RA.

miRNAs in HCC, pathogenesis, and targets

Liver cancer is the third leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. HCC, the most common type of primary liver cancer, is driven by complex genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors. MicroRNAs, a class of naturally occurring small noncoding RNAs, play crucial roles in HCC by simultaneously modulating the expression of multiple genes in a fine-tuning manner. Significant progress has been made in understanding how miRNAs influence key oncogenic pathways, including cell proliferation, apoptosis, angiogenesis, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), as well as their role in modulating the immune microenvironment in HCC. Due to the unexpected stability of miRNAs in the blood and fixed HCC tumors, recent advancements also highlight their potential as noninvasive diagnostic tools. Restoring or inhibiting specific miRNAs has offered promising strategies for targeted HCC treatment by suppressing malignant hepatocyte growth and enhancing antitumor immunity. In this comprehensive review, we consolidate previous research and provide the latest insights into how miRNAs regulate HCC and their therapeutic and diagnostic potential. We delve into the dysregulation of miRNA biogenesis in HCC, the roles of miRNAs in the proliferation and apoptosis of malignant hepatocytes, angiogenesis and metastasis of HCC, the immune microenvironment in HCC, and drug resistance. We also discuss the therapeutic and diagnostic potential of miRNAs and delivery approaches of miRNA drugs to overcome the limitations of current HCC treatment options. By thoroughly summarizing the roles of miRNAs in HCC, our goal is to advance the development of effective therapeutic drugs with minimal adverse effects and to establish precise tools for early diagnosis of HCC.

Exploring the ethnopharmacological significance of Cynara scolymus bracts: Integrating metabolomics, in-Vitro cytotoxic studies and network pharmacology for liver and breast anticancer activity assessment

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Liver and breast cancers are the most dominant cancer types with high occurrence rates. Artichoke (Cynara scolymus L.) has been reputed for its traditional use in alleviating many liver and gallbladder ailments beside its anticancer activity against various types of cancer cells.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To demonstrate detailed chemical matrices of the different plant parts and evaluate their cytotoxic activities aiming to unveil the relationship between these activities and the intrinsic metabolites using metabolomic studies, in-vitro experiments and network pharmacology.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Chemical profiling of extracts from the different plant parts (stems, leaves, bracts and receptacles) was performed using HPLC/QqQ/MS followed by unsupervised chemometric studies. In-vitro cytotoxic potentials of the extracts were evaluated on breast and liver cancer cell line then an OPLS study using linear regression was conducted. Consequently, a network pharmacology analysis on the most bioactive plant organ was applied.

RESULTS

Unsupervised chemometric analysis revealed that kaempferol-3-O-α-L-rhamnopyranoside-7-O-β-D-galacturonopyranoside, chrysoeriol-7-rutinoside and 1-caffeoylquinic acid were responsible for the segregation of the bract (CSB) segregated from the rest of the plant organs. Interestingly, CSB extract possessed the highest potential in-vitro cytotoxic activity against both liver and breast cancer cells (IC50 = 1.65 and 1.77 μg/mL). As expected, the aforementioned biomarkers were observed to be the discriminatory cytotoxic metabolites in the constructed supervised chemometric model. Network pharmacology analysis on CSB revealed 27 liver cancer-related metabolites of which, 1-caffeoylquinic acid was the most enriched one contributing to 13% of the total interactions. Furthermore, 38 target genes were involved, the most enriched of which were Aldo-keto reductase family 1 member B1 (AKR1B10) and interleukin-2 (IL-2). KEGG pathway analysis unveiled 23 significantly related pathways including metabolic pathways that possessed the lowest p-value (1.6E-5).

CONCLUSION

The findings demonstrated that CSB is a significant source of cytotoxic metabolites against breast cancer and liver cancer cell lines, hence, drawing attention to the pharmaceutical and medicinal value of this negligible plant organ and paving the route for insightful research into its exact pharmacological cytotoxic mechanisms.

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.

Mitochondria- and endoplasmic reticulum-localizing iridium(III) complexes induce immunogenic cell death of 143B cells

Recent breakthroughs in cancer immunology have propelled immunotherapy to the forefront of cancer research as a promising treatment approach that harnesses the body's immune system to effectively identify and eliminate cancer cells. In this study, three novel cyclometalated Ir(III) complexes, Ir1, Ir2, and Ir3, were designed, synthesized, and assessed in vitro for cytotoxic activity against several tumor-derived cell lines. Among these, Ir1 exhibited the highest cytotoxic activity, with an IC50 value of 0.4 ± 0.1 μM showcasing its significant anticancer potential. Detailed mechanistic analysis revealed that co-incubation of Ir1 with 143B cells led to Ir1 accumulation within mitochondria and the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). Furthermore, Ir1 induced G0/G1 phase cell cycle arrest, while also diminishing mitochondrial membrane potential, disrupting mitochondrial function, and triggering ER stress. Intriguingly, in mice the Ir1-induced ER stress response disrupted calcium homeostasis to thereby trigger immunogenic cell death (ICD), which subsequently activated the host antitumor immune response while concurrently dampening the in vivo tumor-induced inflammatory response.

MicroRNAs in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Pathogenesis: Insights into Mechanisms and Therapeutic Opportunities

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) presents a significant global health burden, with alarming statistics revealing its rising incidence and high mortality rates. Despite advances in medical care, HCC treatment remains challenging due to late-stage diagnosis, limited effective therapeutic options, tumor heterogeneity, and drug resistance. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have attracted substantial attention as key regulators of HCC pathogenesis. These small non-coding RNA molecules play pivotal roles in modulating gene expression, implicated in various cellular processes relevant to cancer development. Understanding the intricate network of miRNA-mediated molecular pathways in HCC is essential for unraveling the complex mechanisms underlying hepatocarcinogenesis and developing novel therapeutic approaches. This manuscript aims to provide a comprehensive review of recent experimental and clinical discoveries regarding the complex role of miRNAs in influencing the key hallmarks of HCC, as well as their promising clinical utility as potential therapeutic targets.

Mechanisms of Tolerance Induction in Liver Transplantation: Lessons Learned from Fetomaternal Tolerance, Autoimmunity and Tumor Immunity

Since the first published report of experimental kidney transplantation in dogs in 1902, there were many experimental and clinical trials of organ transplantation, with many sacrifices. After the establishment of the surgical technique and the discovery of immunosuppressive drugs, transplantation became the definitive treatment strategy for patients with terminal organ failure. However, this is not a common therapy method due to the difficulty of solving the fundamental issues behind organ transplantation, including the shortage of donor graft, potential risks of transplant surgery and economic capability. The pre- and post-transplant management of recipients is another critical issue that may affect transplant outcome. Most liver transplant recipients experience post-transplant complications, including infection, acute/chronic rejection, metabolic syndrome and the recurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma. Therefore, the early prediction and diagnosis of these complications may improve overall and disease-free survival. Furthermore, how to induce operational tolerance is the key to achieving the ultimate goal of transplantation. In this review, we focus on liver transplantation, which is known to achieve operational tolerance in some circumstances, and the mechanical similarities and differences between liver transplant immunology and fetomaternal tolerance, autoimmunity or tumor immunity are discussed.

Serum microRNA Profiles and Pathways in Hepatitis B-Associated Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A South African Study

The incidence and mortality of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in Sub-Saharan Africa is projected to increase sharply by 2040 against a backdrop of limited diagnostic and therapeutic options. Two large South African-based case control studies have developed a serum-based miRNome for Hepatitis B-associated hepatocellular carcinoma (HBV-HCC), as well as identifying their gene targets and pathways. Using a combination of RNA sequencing, differential analysis and filters including a unique molecular index count (UMI) ≥ 10 and log fold change (LFC) range > 2: <-0.5 (p < 0.05), 91 dysregulated miRNAs were characterized including 30 that were upregulated and 61 were downregulated. KEGG analysis, a literature review and other bioinformatic tools identified the targeted genes and HBV-HCC pathways of the top 10 most dysregulated miRNAs. The results, which are based on differentiating miRNA expression of cases versus controls, also develop a serum-based miRNA diagnostic panel that indicates 95.9% sensitivity, 91.0% specificity and a Youden Index of 0.869. In conclusion, the results develop a comprehensive African HBV-HCC miRNome that potentially can contribute to RNA-based diagnostic and therapeutic options.

miR-199a/b-3p inhibits HCC cell proliferation and invasion through a novel compensatory signaling pathway DJ-1\Ras\PI3K/AKT

Several studies have reported the effects of DJ-1 gene and miR-199a/b-3p on HCC development. However, whether miR-199a/b-3p regulates HCC progression through a novel compensatory signaling pathway involving DJ-1, Ras, and PI3K/AKT remains unknown. We used (TCGA, HPA, miRWalk and Target scan) databases, cancer and para-tissue HCC patients, dual-luciferase reporter gene analysis, proteomic imprinting, qPCR, cell proliferation, scratch, transport, and flow cytometry to detect the molecular mechanism of DJ-1 and miR-199a/b-3p co-expression in HCC cell lines. Bioinformatics analysis showed that DJ-1 was highly expressed in HCC ((P < 0.001) were closely associated with tumor stage (T), portal vein vascular invasion, OS, DSS, and PFI (P < 0.05); miR-199a/b-3p was lowly expressed in HCC (P < 0.001), which was the upstream regulator of DJ-1. Spearman coefficient r = -0.113, P = 0.031; Dual luciferase gene report verified the negative targeting relationship between them P< 0.001; Western blotting demonstrated that miR-199a/b-3p could inhibit the protein expression of DJ-1, Ras and AKT(P < 0.05); The results of CCK8, cell scratch, Transwell migration and flow cytometry showed that OE + DJ-1 increased the proliferation, migration and invasion ability of HepG2 cells, and decreased the apoptosis process, and the differences were statistically significant (P < 0.05), while miR-199a/b-3p had the opposite effect (P < 0.05).

Luteolin Inhibits Lung Cancer Cell Migration by Negatively Regulating TWIST1 and MMP2 Through Upregulation of miR-106a-5p

BACKGROUND

Luteolin, a common dietary flavonoid found in plants, has been shown to have anti-cancer properties. However, its exact mechanisms of action in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) are still not fully understood, particularly its role in regulating broader genomic networks and specific gene targets. In this study, we aimed to elucidate the role of microRNAs (miRNAs) in NSCLC treated with luteolin, using A549 cells as a model system.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

miRNA profiling was conducted on luteolin-treated A549 cells using Exiqon microarrays, with validation of selected miRNAs by qRT-PCR. Bioinformatic analysis identified the regulatory roles of miRNAs in biological processes and pathways following luteolin treatment. Computational algorithms were employed to identify potential target genes. A549 cells were transfected with miR-106a-5p mimic and inhibitor or their corresponding controls. The expression levels of 2 genes, twist basic helix-loop-helix transcription factor 1 (TWIST1) and matrix metallopeptidase 2 (MMP2), and cell migration were assessed.

RESULTS

miRNA profiling identified 341 miRNAs, with 18 exhibiting significantly altered expression (P < 0.05). Subsequent qRT-PCR analysis confirmed altered expression of 6 selected miRNAs. KEGG and GO analyses revealed significant alterations in pathways and biological processes crucial for tumor biology. TWIST1 and MMP2, which both contain conserved miR-106a-5p binding sites, exhibited an inverse correlation with the expression levels of miR-106a-5p. Dual-luciferase reporter assays confirmed TWIST1 and MMP2 as direct targets of miR-106a-5p. Luteolin treatment led to a reduction in A549 cell migration, and this reduction was further amplified by the overexpression of miR-106a-5p.

CONCLUSION

Luteolin inhibits A549 cell migration by modulating the miRNA landscape, shedding light on its mechanisms and laying the foundation for miRNA-based therapeutic approaches for NSCLC.

Therapeutic potential of miRNAs in placental extracellular vesicles in ovarian and endometrial cancer

There is a cross-link between the placenta and cancer development, as the placenta is grown as a highly invasive tumour-like organ. However, placental development is strictly controlled. Although the underlying mechanism of this control is largely unknown, it is now well-recognised that extracellular vesicles (EVs) released from the placenta play an important role in controlling placenta proliferation and invasion, as placental EVs have shown their effect on regulating maternal adaptation. Better understanding the tumour-like mechanism of the placenta could help to develop a therapeutic potential in cancers. In this study, by RNA sequencing of placental EVs, 20 highly expressed microRNAs (miRNAs) in placental EVs were selected and analysed for their functions on ovarian and endometrial cancer. There were up to seven enriched miRNAs, including miRNA-199a-3p, miRNA-143-3p, and miRNA-519a-5p in placental EVs showing effects on the inhibition of ovarian and endometrial cancer cell proliferation and migration, and promotion of cancer cell death, reported in the literature. Most of these miRNAs have been reported to be downregulated in ovarian and endometrial cancer. Transfection of ovarian and endometrial cancer cells with mimics of miRNA-199a-3p, miRNA-143-3p, and miRNA-519a-5p significantly reduced the cell viability. Our findings could provide strategies for using these naturally occurring miRNAs to develop a novel method to treat ovarian and endometrial cancer in the future.

MicroRNAs as the critical regulators of tumor angiogenesis in liver cancer

Liver cancer is one of the most common malignancies in human digestive system. Despite the recent therapeutic methods, there is a high rate of mortality among liver cancer patients. Late diagnosis in the advanced tumor stages can be one of the main reasons for the poor prognosis in these patients. Therefore, investigating the molecular mechanisms of liver cancer can be helpful for the early stage tumor detection and treatment. Vascular expansion in liver tumors can be one of the important reasons for poor prognosis and aggressiveness. Therefore, anti-angiogenic drugs are widely used in liver cancer patients. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have key roles in the regulation of angiogenesis in liver tumors. Due to the high stability of miRNAs in body fluids, these factors are widely used as the non-invasive diagnostic and prognostic markers in cancer patients. Regarding, the importance of angiogenesis during liver tumor growth and invasion, in the present review, we discussed the role of miRNAs in regulation of angiogenesis in these tumors. It has been reported that miRNAs mainly exert an anti-angiogenic function by regulation of tumor microenvironment, transcription factors, and signaling pathways in liver tumors. This review can be an effective step to suggest the miRNAs for the non-invasive early detection of malignant and invasive liver tumors.

Zyxin promotes hepatocellular carcinoma progression via the activation of AKT/mTOR signaling pathway

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a common malignancy that is driven by multiple genes and pathways. The aim of this study was to investigate the role and specific mechanism of the actin-interacting protein zyxin (ZYX) in HCC. We found that the expression of ZYX was significantly higher in HCC tissues compared to that in normal liver tissues. In addition, overexpression of ZYX in hepatoma cell lines (PLC/PRF/5, HCCLM3) enhanced their proliferation, migration and invasion, whereas ZYX knockdown had the opposite effects (SK HEP-1, Huh-7). Furthermore, the change in the expression levels of ZYX also altered that of proteins related to cell cycle, migration and invasion. Similar results were obtained with xenograft models. The AKT/mTOR signaling pathway is one of the key mediators of cancer development. While ZYX overexpression upregulated the levels of phosphorylated AKT/mTOR proteins, its knockdown had the opposite effect. In addition, the AKT inhibitor MK2206 neutralized the pro-oncogenic effects of ZYX on the HCC cells, whereas the AKT activator SC79 restored the proliferation, migration and invasion of HCC cells with ZYX knockdown. Taken together, ZYX promotes the malignant progression of HCC by activating AKT/mTOR signaling pathway, and is a potential therapeutic target in HCC.

The role of microRNAs in the different phases of liver regeneration

INTRODUCTION

Since the first discovery of microRNAs (miRs) extensive evidence reveals their indispensable role in different patho-physiological processes. They are recognized as critical regulators of hepatic regeneration, as they modulate multiple complex signaling pathways affecting liver regeneration. MiR-related translational suppression and degradation of target mRNAs and proteins are not limited to one specific gene, but act on multiple targets.

AREAS COVERED

In this review, we are going to explore the role of miRs in the context of liver regeneration and discuss the regulatory effects attributed to specific miRs. Moreover, specific pathways crucial for liver regeneration will be discussed, with a particular emphasis on the involvement of miRs within the respective signaling cascades.

EXPERT OPINION

The considerable amount of studies exploring miR functions in a variety of diseases paved the way for the development of miR-directed therapeutics. Clinical implementation has already shown promising results, but additional research is warranted to assure safe and efficient delivery. Nevertheless, given the broad functional properties of miRs and their critical involvement during hepatic regeneration, they represent an attractive treatment target to promote liver recovery after hepatic resection.

Recent Advances in Extracellular Vesicles in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis and Emergent Perspectives

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a severe and incurable neurodegenerative disease characterized by the progressive death of motor neurons, leading to paralysis and death. It is a rare disease characterized by high patient-to-patient heterogeneity, which makes its study arduous and complex. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have emerged as important players in the development of ALS. Thus, ALS phenotype-expressing cells can spread their abnormal bioactive cargo through the secretion of EVs, even in distant tissues. Importantly, owing to their nature and composition, EVs' formation and cargo can be exploited for better comprehension of this elusive disease and identification of novel biomarkers, as well as for potential therapeutic applications, such as those based on stem cell-derived exosomes. This review highlights recent advances in the identification of the role of EVs in ALS etiopathology and how EVs can be promising new therapeutic strategies.

Identification of ferroptosis and drug resistance related hub genes to predict the prognosis in Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the third leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. Currently, overcoming the drug resistance in HCC is a critical challenge and ferroptosis has emerged as a promising therapeutic option for cancer. We aim to construct a new gene signature related to ferroptosis and drug resistance to predict the prognosis in HCC. The RNA-seq data of HCC patients was obtained from the Cancer Genome Atlas database. Using least absolute shrinkage and selection operator cox regression, Kaplan-Meier analysis, and differential analysis, we constructed a prognostic model consisting of six hub genes (TOP2A, BIRC5, VEGFA, HIF1A, FTH1, ACSL3) related to ferroptosis and drug resistance in HCC. Functional enrichment, pathway enrichment and GSEA analysis were performed to investigate the potential molecular mechanism, and construction of PPI, mRNA-miRNA, mRNA-RBP, mRNA-TF and mRNA-drugs interaction networks to predict its interaction with different molecules. Clinical prognostic characteristics were revealed by univariate, multivariate cox regression analysis and nomogram. We also analyzed the relationship between the signature, immune checkpoints, and drug sensitivity. The expression of the gene signature was detected in HCC cell lines and HPA database. Our prognostic model classified patients into high and low-risk groups based on the risk scores and found the expression level of the genes was higher in the high-risk group than the low-risk group, demonstrating that high expression of the hub genes was associated with poor prognosis in HCC. ROC analysis revealed its high diagnostic efficacy in both HCC and normal tissues. The proportional hazards model and calibration analysis confirmed that the model's prediction was most accurate for 1- and 3-years survival. QRT-PCR showed the high expression level of the gene signature in HCC. Our study built a novel gene signature with good potential to predict the prognosis of HCC, which may provide new therapeutic targets and molecular mechanism for HCC diagnosis and treatment.

Hepatic stellate cell stearoyl co-A desaturase activates leukotriene B4 receptor 2 - β-catenin cascade to promote liver tumorigenesis

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the 3rd most deadly malignancy. Activated hepatic stellate cells (aHSC) give rise to cancer-associated fibroblasts in HCC and are considered a potential therapeutic target. Here we report that selective ablation of stearoyl CoA desaturase-2 (Scd2) in aHSC globally suppresses nuclear CTNNB1 and YAP1 in tumors and tumor microenvironment and prevents liver tumorigenesis in male mice. Tumor suppression is associated with reduced leukotriene B4 receptor 2 (LTB4R2) and its high affinity oxylipin ligand, 12-hydroxyheptadecatrienoic acid (12-HHTrE). Genetic or pharmacological inhibition of LTB4R2 recapitulates CTNNB1 and YAP1 inactivation and tumor suppression in culture and in vivo. Single cell RNA sequencing identifies a subset of tumor-associated aHSC expressing Cyp1b1 but no other 12-HHTrE biosynthetic genes. aHSC release 12-HHTrE in a manner dependent on SCD and CYP1B1 and their conditioned medium reproduces the LTB4R2-mediated tumor-promoting effects of 12-HHTrE in HCC cells. CYP1B1-expressing aHSC are detected in proximity of LTB4R2-positive HCC cells and the growth of patient HCC organoids is blunted by LTB4R2 antagonism or knockdown. Collectively, our findings suggest aHSC-initiated 12-HHTrE-LTB4R2-CTNNB1-YAP1 pathway as a potential HCC therapeutic target.

An Overview of the Role of MicroRNAs on Carcinogenesis: A Focus on Cell Cycle, Angiogenesis and Metastasis

In recent years, the importance of epigenetic markers in the carcinogenesis of different malignant neoplasms has been demonstrated, also demonstrating their utility for understanding metastatic spread and tumor progression in cancer patients. Among the different biomarkers, microRNAs represent a set of non-coding RNAs that regulate gene expression, having been involved in a wide variety of neoplasia acting in different oncogenic pathways. Both the overexpression and downregulation of microRNAs represent a complex interaction with various genes whose ultimate consequence is increased cell proliferation, tumor invasion and interaction with various driver markers. It should be noted that in current clinical practice, even though the combination of different microRNAs has been shown to be useful by different authors at diagnostic and prognostic levels, there are no diagnostic kits that can be used for the initial approach or to assess recurrences of oncological diseases. Previous works have cited microRNAs as having a critical role in several carcinogenic mechanisms, ranging from cell cycle alterations to angiogenesis and mechanisms of distant metastatic dissemination. Indeed, the overexpression or downregulation of specific microRNAs seem to be tightly involved in the modulation of various components related to these processes. For instance, cyclins and cyclin-dependent kinases, transcription factors, signaling molecules and angiogenic/antiangiogenic products, among others, have been recognized as specific targets of microRNAs in different types of cancer. Therefore, the purpose of this article is to describe the main implications of different microRNAs in cell cycle alterations, metastasis and angiogenesis, trying to summarize their involvement in carcinogenesis.

The role of miRNAs in liver diseases: Potential therapeutic and clinical applications

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of short, non-coding RNAs that function post-transcriptionally to regulate gene expression by binding to particular mRNA targets and causing destruction of the mRNA or translational inhibition of the mRNA. The miRNAs control the range of liver activities, from the healthy to the unhealthy. Considering that miRNA dysregulation is linked to liver damage, fibrosis, and tumorigenesis, miRNAs are a promising therapeutic strategy for the evaluation and treatment of liver illnesses. Recent findings on the regulation and function of miRNAs in liver diseases are discussed, with an emphasis on miRNAs that are highly expressed or enriched in hepatocytes. Alcohol-related liver illness, acute liver toxicity, viral hepatitis, hepatocellular carcinoma, liver fibrosis, liver cirrhosis, and exosomes in chronic liver disease all emphasize the roles and target genes of these miRNAs. We briefly discuss the function of miRNAs in the etiology of liver diseases, namely in the transfer of information between hepatocytes and other cell types via extracellular vesicles. Here we offer some background on the use of miRNAs as biomarkers for the early prognosis, diagnosis, and assessment of liver diseases. The identification of biomarkers and therapeutic targets for liver disorders will be made possible by future research into miRNAs in the liver, which will also help us better understand the pathogeneses of liver diseases.

miR-199a-3p promotes gastric cancer progression by promoting its stemness potential via DDR2 mediation

BACKGROUND

Peritoneal metastasis (PM) is an independent prognostic factor in gastric cancer (GC), however, the underlying mechanisms of PM occurrence remain unclear.

METHOD

The roles of DDR2 were investigated in GC and its potential relationship to PM, and orthotopic implants into nude mice were performed to assess the biological effects of DDR2 on PM.

RESULTS

Herein, DDR2 level is more significantly observed to elevate in PM lesion than the primary lesion. GC with DDR2-high expression evokes a worse overall survival (OS) in TCGA, similar results of the gloomy OS with high DDR2 levels are clarified via the stratifying stage of TNM. The conspicuously increased expression of DDR2 was found in GC cell lines, luciferase reporter assays verified that miR-199a-3p directly targeted DDR2 gene, which was correlated to tumor progression. We ulteriorly observed DDR2 participated in GC stemness maintenance via mediating pluripotency factor SOX2 expression and implicated in autophagy and DNA damage of cancer stem cells (CSCs). In particular, DDR2 dominated EMT programming through recruiting NFATc1-SOX2 complex to Snai1 in governing cell progression, controlling by DDR2-mTOR-SOX2 axis in SGC-7901 CSCs. Furthermore, DDR2 promoted the tumor peritoneal dissemination in gastric xenograft mouse model.

CONCLUSION

Phenotype screens and disseminated verifications incriminating in GC exposit the miR-199a-3p-DDR2-mTOR-SOX2 axis as a clinically actionable target for tumor PM progression. The herein-reported DDR2-based underlying axis in GC represents novel and potent tools for studying the mechanisms of PM.

LncRNA H19 promotes tumor angiogenesis in smokers by targeting anti-angiogenic miRNAs

A key concept in drug discovery is the identification of candidate therapeutic targets such as long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) because of their extensive involvement in neoplasms, and impressionability by smoking. Induced by exposure to cigarette smoke, lncRNA H19 targets and inactivates miR-29, miR-30a, miR-107, miR-140, miR-148b, miR-199a and miR-200, which control the rate of angiogenesis by inhibiting BiP, DLL4, FGF7, HIF1A, HIF1B, HIF2A, PDGFB, PDGFRA, VEGFA, VEGFB, VEGFC, VEGFR1, VEGFR2 and VEGFR3. Nevertheless, these miRNAs are often dysregulated in bladder cancer, breast cancer, colorectal cancer, glioma, gastric adenocarcinoma, hepatocellular carcinoma, meningioma, non-small-cell lung carcinoma, oral squamous cell carcinoma, ovarian cancer, prostate adenocarcinoma and renal cell carcinoma. As such, the present perspective article seeks to establish an evidence-based hypothetical model of how a smoking-related lncRNA known as H19 might aggravate angiogenesis by interfering with miRNAs that would otherwise regulate angiogenesis in a nonsmoking individual.

Silencing CircEIF3I/miR-526b-5p Axis Epigenetically Targets HGF/c-Met Signal to Hinder the Malignant Growth, Metastasis and Angiogenesis of Hepatocellular Carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF)/c-mesenchymal-epithelial transition factor (c-Met) is important for the diagnosis and prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are key regulators of HCC progression, and this study focused on circRNA eukaryotic translation initiation factor 3 subunit I (circEIF3I) with HGF/c-Met in HCC.

METHODS

Levels of circEIF3I, microRNA (miR)-526b-5p, HGF, E-cadherin, N-cadherin, and Vimentin were detected by Gene Expression Omnibus database, quantitative PCR and western blotting. Cell functions were measured by detecting cell growth (cell proliferation assay with WST-1 and EdU, colony formation assay, flow cytometry, caspase 3 activity assay, and nude mouse tumorigenicity assay), metastasis (transwell assay and western blotting), angiogenesis (endothelial tube formation assay). Molecular interaction was determined dual-luciferase reporter assay, RNA immunoprecipitation, and Pearson correlation analysis.

RESULTS

Expression of circEIF3I was upregulated in HCC tissues. Knockdown of circEIF3I suppressed cell proliferation epithelial-mesenchymal transition, migration, invasion and tube formation ability but promoted apoptosis of HCC cells. CircEIF3I could sponge miR-526b-5pto regulate downstream HGF. Functionally, circEIF3I regulation in HCC cell progression was associated with miR-526b-5p sponging function and HGF upregulation could attenuate tumor-inhibiting roles of miR-526b-5p. HCC tumor growth was delayed by interfering circEIF3I.

CONCLUSION

CircEIF3I was an oncogenic circRNA in HCC-, and interfering circEIF3I exhibited anti-HCC activity via circEIF3I-miR-526b-5p-HGF/c-Met pathway.

Predicting Microenvironment in CXCR4- and FAP-Positive Solid Tumors-A Pan-Cancer Machine Learning Workflow for Theranostic Target Structures

(1) Background: C-X-C Motif Chemokine Receptor 4 (CXCR4) and Fibroblast Activation Protein Alpha (FAP) are promising theranostic targets. However, it is unclear whether CXCR4 and FAP positivity mark distinct microenvironments, especially in solid tumors. (2) Methods: Using Random Forest (RF) analysis, we searched for entity-independent mRNA and microRNA signatures related to CXCR4 and FAP overexpression in our pan-cancer cohort from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database-representing n = 9242 specimens from 29 tumor entities. CXCR4- and FAP-positive samples were assessed via StringDB cluster analysis, EnrichR, Metascape, and Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA). Findings were validated via correlation analyses in n = 1541 tumor samples. TIMER2.0 analyzed the association of CXCR4 / FAP expression and infiltration levels of immune-related cells. (3) Results: We identified entity-independent CXCR4 and FAP gene signatures representative for the majority of solid cancers. While CXCR4 positivity marked an immune-related microenvironment, FAP overexpression highlighted an angiogenesis-associated niche. TIMER2.0 analysis confirmed characteristic infiltration levels of CD8+ cells for CXCR4-positive tumors and endothelial cells for FAP-positive tumors. (4) Conclusions: CXCR4- and FAP-directed PET imaging could provide a non-invasive decision aid for entity-agnostic treatment of microenvironment in solid malignancies. Moreover, this machine learning workflow can easily be transferred towards other theranostic targets.

Non-Coding RNA Related to MAPK Signaling Pathway in Liver Cancer

The advancement in high-throughput sequencing analysis and the evaluation of chromatin state maps have revealed that eukaryotic cells produce many non-coding transcripts/RNAs. Further, a strong association was observed between some non-coding RNAs and cancer development. The mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) belong to the serine-threonine kinase family and are the primary signaling pathways involved in cell proliferation from the cell surface to the nucleus. They play an important role in various human diseases. A few non-coding RNAs associated with the MAPK signaling pathway play a significant role in the development of several malignancies, including liver cancer. In this review, we summarize the molecular mechanisms and interactions of microRNA, lncRNA, and other non-coding RNAs in the development of liver cancer that are associated with the MAPK signaling pathway. Further, we briefly discuss the therapeutic strategies for liver cancer related to ncRNA and the MAPK signaling pathway.

Investigation of Anti-Liver Cancer Activity of the Herbal Drug FDY003 Using Network Pharmacology

Globally, liver cancer (LC) is the sixth-most frequently occurring and the second-most fatal malignancy, responsible for 0.83 million deaths annually. Although the application of herbal drugs in cancer therapies has increased, their anti-LC activity and relevant mechanisms have not been fully studied from a systems perspective. To address these issues, we conducted a system-perspective network pharmacological investigation into the activity and mechanisms underlying the action of the herbal drug. FDY003 reduced the viability of human LC treatment. FDY003 reduced the viability of human LC cells and elevated their chemosensitivity. There were a total of 16 potential bioactive chemical components in FDY003 and they had 91 corresponding targets responsible for the pathological processes in LC. These FDY003 targets were functionally involved in regulating the survival, proliferation, apoptosis, and cell cycle of LC cells. Additionally, we found that FDY003 may target key signaling cascades connected to diverse LC pathological mechanisms, namely, PI3K-Akt, focal adhesion, IL-17, FoxO, MAPK, and TNF pathways. Overall, this study contributed to integrative mechanistic insights into the anti-LC potential of FDY003.

Advances in Chitosan-Based CRISPR/Cas9 Delivery Systems

Clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat (CRISPR) and the associated Cas endonuclease (Cas9) is a cutting-edge genome-editing technology that specifically targets DNA sequences by using short RNA molecules, helping the endonuclease Cas9 in the repairing of genes responsible for genetic diseases. However, the main issue regarding the application of this technique is the development of an efficient CRISPR/Cas9 delivery system. The consensus relies on the use of non-viral delivery systems represented by nanoparticles (NPs). Chitosan is a safe biopolymer widely used in the generation of NPs for several biomedical applications, especially gene delivery. Indeed, it shows several advantages in the context of gene delivery systems, for instance, the presence of positively charged amino groups on its backbone can establish electrostatic interactions with the negatively charged nucleic acid forming stable nanocomplexes. However, its main limitations include poor solubility in physiological pH and limited buffering ability, which can be overcome by functionalising its chemical structure. This review offers a critical analysis of the different approaches for the generation of chitosan-based CRISPR/Cas9 delivery systems and suggestions for future developments.

miR-199a-3p increases the anti-tumor activity of palbociclib in liver cancer models

Palbociclib is in early-stage clinical testing in advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Here, we investigated whether the anti-tumor activity of palbociclib, which prevents the CDK4/6-mediated phosphorylation of RB1 but simultaneously activates AKT signaling, could be improved by its combination with a PI3K/AKT/mTOR inhibitor in liver cancer models. The selective pan-AKT inhibitor, MK-2206, or the microRNA-199a-3p were tested in combination with palbociclib in HCC cell lines and in the TG221 HCC transgenic mouse model. The combination palbociclib/MK-2206 was highly effective, but too toxic to be tolerated by mice. Conversely, the combination miR-199a-3p mimics/palbociclib not only induced a complete or partial regression of tumor lesions, but was also well tolerated. After 3 weeks of treatment, the combination produced a significant reduction in number and size of tumor nodules in comparison with palbociclib or miR-199a-3p mimics used as single agents. Moreover, we also reported the efficacy of this combination against sorafenib-resistant cells in vitro and in vivo. At the molecular level, the combination caused the simultaneous decrease of the phosphorylation of both RB1 and of AKT. Our findings provide pre-clinical evidence for the efficacy of the combination miR-199a-3p/palbociclib as anti-HCC treatment or as a new approach to overcome sorafenib resistance.

TGF-β/VEGF-A Genetic Variants Interplay in Genetic Susceptibility to Non-Melanocytic Skin Cancer

Differential genetically determined expression of transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β pathway and of vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGF-A) might modulate the molecular “milieu” involved in the etio-pathogenesis of non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC). We have evaluated the frequency of some functionally relevant SNPs of TGF-β and VEGF-A genes in 70 NMSC patients and 161 healthy controls, typed for TGF-β1 rs1800471, TGF-β2 rs900, TGF-βR1 rs334348 and rs334349, TGF-βR2 rs4522809 and VEGF-A rs3025039 SNPs. TGF-βR2 rs1800629G allele and related genotypes were found to be associated with a possible protective role against NMSC, whereas VEGF-A rs3025039T was associated with an increased risk. To evaluate the effect of genotype combinations on NMSC susceptibility, we determined the frequencies of 31 pseudo-haplotypes due to non-random linkage among alleles of loci not lying on the same chromosome. Two pseudo-haplotypes that imply a minor allele of TGF-βR2 or minor allele of VEGF-A SNPs combined with major alleles of the other SNPs were, respectively, associated with a protective effect, and susceptibility to NMSC. In addition, a pseudo-haplotype involving minor alleles of TGF-β2 rs900, TGF-βR1 rs334348 and rs4522809 SNPs might be a susceptibility marker for NMSC. In conclusion, our data suggest that a complex interplay among the genetic polymorphisms of TGF-β, TGF-β receptors and VEGF-A genes might influence the net effect of genetic background of the patients on NMSC development. This might be relevant in the risk evaluation, diagnosis and treatment of NMSC.

miR-199a-3p/5p regulate tumorgenesis via targeting Rheb in non-small cell lung cancer

Lung cancer is one of the deadliest cancers, in which non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) accounting for 85% and has a low survival rate of 5 years. Dysregulation of microRNAs (miRNAs) can participate in tumor regulation and many major diseases. In this study, we found that miR-199a-3p/5p were down-expressed in NSCLC tissue samples, cell lines, and the patient sample database. MiR-199a-3p/5p overexpression could significantly suppress cell proliferation, migration ability and promote apoptosis. Through software prediction, ras homolog enriched in brain (Rheb) was identified as a common target of miR-199a-3p and miR-199a-5p, which participated in regulating mTOR signaling pathway. The same effect of inhibiting NSCLC appeared after down-regulating the expression of Rheb. Furthermore, our findings revealed that miR-199a can significantly inhibit tumor growth and metastasis in vivo, which fully demonstrates that miR-199a plays a tumor suppressive role in NSCLC. In addition, miR-199a-3p/5p has been shown to enhance the sensitivity of gefitinib to EGFR-T790M in NSCLC. Collectively, these results prove that miR-199a-3p/5p can act as cancer suppressor genes to inhibit the mTOR signaling pathway by targeting Rheb, which in turn inhibits the regulatory process of NSCLC. Thus, to investigate the anti-cancer effect of pre-miR-199a/Rheb/mTOR axis in NSCLC, miR-199a-3p and miR-199a-5p have the potential to become an early diagnostic marker or therapeutic target for NSCLC.

A microRNA binding site polymorphism in the 3' UTR region of VEGF-A gene modifies colorectal cancer risk based on ethnicity: a meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A) plays an integral role in angiogenesis by contributing to growth, development, and metastasis of solid tumors. Recently, a single-nucleotide polymorphism +936C/T located in the VEGF-A 3' untranslated region (UTR) facilitated the susceptibility of colorectal cancer. The association between VEGF-A gene polymorphism +936C/T and colorectal cancer risk has been widely studied in the last decade, but presently, the results furnished remain enigmatic. Hence, the study aimed to investigate the association between VEGF-A +936C/T miRNA binding site polymorphism and the risk of developing colorectal cancer.

METHODS

This meta-analysis included 13 published case-control studies covering 3465 cases (colorectal cancer) and 3476 healthy controls. Publication bias was examined by means of Begg's funnel plots and Egger's regression tests. The quality of the studies included was evaluated using Newcastle-Ottawa scale. Subgroup analyses were performed in accordance to the various ethnicities of the study subjects and the study quality.

RESULTS

From the data obtained, it is implied that VEGF-A +936C/T polymorphism did not correlate with elevated colorectal cancer risk in all genetic models. But the results acquired from the subgroup analysis in over dominant model (CT vs. CC + TT: OR = 1.5047, 95% CI = 1.19-1.90) suggest that VEGF-A +936C/T polymorphism leads to the raise in the risk of developing CRC among the East Asian population. No association was observed in Caucasian and South Asian population.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results indicate that VEGF-A +936C/T polymorphism is not a risk factor for developing CRC in Caucasian and South Asian population. However, the East Asian population was related to an increased risk of developing colorectal cancer due to the presence of the minor allele.

miR-199a-5p Plays a Pivotal Role on Wound Healing via Suppressing VEGFA and ROCK1 in Diabetic Ulcer Foot

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a growing health problem. As a common complication of DM, diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) results in delayed wound healing and is a leading cause of nontraumatic amputation. miR-199a-5p, a short noncoding RNA, had abnormal expression in DFU wound tissues. The expression of miR-199a-5p was significantly increased in DFU wound tissues, skin tissues of diabetic rats, and high glucose-induced cells. Vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) and Rho-associated kinase 1 (ROCK1) are directly targets of miR-199a-5p. Inhibiting the expression of miR-199a-5p alleviated the inhibition of VEGFA and ROCK1, thereby rescued impaired proliferation and migration of HG-induced cells, and restored the normal function of the cells to some extent. In diabetic rats, inhibition of miR-199a-5p significantly increased the expression of VEGFA and ROCK1, significantly promoted wound healing, and rescued impaired wound healing. miR-199a-5p and its targets showed therapeutic effect on diabetic wounds.

miRNAs inspirations in hepatocellular carcinoma: Detrimental and favorable aspects of key performers

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the fourth leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. HCC initiation, progression, and therapy failure are all influenced by various variables, including microRNAs (miRNAs). miRNAs are short non-coding RNA sequences that modulate target mRNA expression by deteriorating or repressing translation. miRNAs play an imperative role in HCC pathogenesis by triggering the induction of cancer stem cells (CSCs) and their proliferation, while also delaying apoptosis, sustaining the cell cycle, and inspiring angiogenesis, invasion, and metastasis. Additionally, miRNAs modulate crucial HCC-related molecular pathways such as the p53 pathway, the Wnt/β-catenin pathway, VEGFR2, and PTEN/PI3K/AKT pathway. Consequently, the goal of this review was to give an up-to-date overview of oncogenic and tumor suppressor (TS) miRNAs, as well as their potential significance in HCC pathogenesis and treatment responses, highlighting their underpinning molecular pathways in HCC initiation and progression. Similarly, the biological importance and clinical application of miRNAs in HCC are summarized.

Over-expression of miR-193a-3p regulates the apoptosis of colorectal cancer cells by targeting PAK3

Although dysregulated expression of microRNAs (miRNA) has been investigated in colorectal cancer (CRC), MiR-193a-3p, as a tumor inhibitor, is less studied. To investigate the function and mechanism of miR-193a-3p in CRC, the potential function of miR-193a-3p in regulating PAK3 in CRC with a series of experimental assays including western blotting, qRT-PCR, bioinformatics analysis, a luciferase reporter assay, flow cytometry, Transwell assay, CCK8 assay and immunofluorescence were performed in this study. The results showed that miR-193a-3p was down-regulated in CRC tissues and cell lines, which was also correlated with tumor progression. PAK3 was predicted as a target gene of miR-193a-3p in CRC cells by TargetScan database, which was confirmed by luciferase assays. Moreover, overexpression of miR-193a-3p suppressed the viability, cell cycle progression, migration, and invasion, and induced apoptosis of CRC cells in vitro by regulating the PAK3 signaling pathway. Therefore, miR-193a-3p may serve as a tumor suppressor and potential target for CRC treatment.

Extracorporeal Cardiac Shock Wave-Induced Exosome Derived From Endothelial Colony-Forming Cells Carrying miR-140-3p Alleviate Cardiomyocyte Hypoxia/Reoxygenation Injury via the PTEN/PI3K/AKT Pathway

Background: Stem cell-derived exosomes have great potential in the treatment of myocardial ischemia–reperfusion injury (IRI). Extracorporeal cardiac shock waves (ECSW) as effective therapy, in part, could activate the function of exosomes. In this study, we explored the effect of ECSW-induced exosome derived from endothelial colony-forming cells on cardiomyocyte hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R) injury and its underlying mechanisms.

Methods: The exosomes were extracted and purified from the supernatant of endothelial colony-forming cells (ECFCs-exo). ECFCs-exo treated with shock wave (SW-exo) or without shock wave (CON-exo) were performed with high-throughput sequencing of the miRNA. H9c2 cells were incubated with SW-exo or CON-exo after H/R injury. The cell viability, cell apoptosis, oxidative stress level, and inflammatory factor were assessed. qRT-PCR was used to detect the expression levels of miRNA and mRNA in cells and exosomes. The PTEN/PI3K/AKT pathway-related proteins were detected by Western blotting, respectively.

Results: Exosomes secreted by ECFCs could be taken up by H9c2 cells. Administration of SW-exo to H9c2 cells after H/R injury could significantly improve cell viability, inhibit cell apoptosis, and downregulate oxidative stress level (p < 0.01), with an increase in Bcl-2 protein and a decrease in Bax, cleaved caspase-3, and NF-κB protein (p < 0.05). Notably, miR-140-3p was found to be highly enriched both in ECFCs and ECFCs-exo treated with ECSW (p < 0.05) and served as a critical mediator. SW-exo increased miR-140-3p expression but decreased PTEN expression in H9c2 cells with enhanced phosphorylation of the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. These cardioprotective effects of SW-exo on H/R injury were blunted by the miR-140-3p inhibitor. Dual-luciferase assay verified that miR-140-3p could directly target the 3′UTR of PTEN mRNA and exert a negative regulatory effect.

Conclusion: This study has shown the potential of ECSW as an effective stimulation for the exosomes derived from ECFCs in vitro. SW-exo exerted a stronger therapeutic effect on H/R injury in H9c2 cells possibly via delivering exosomal miR-140-3p, which might be a novel promising strategy for the myocardial IRI.

LncRNA PTPRG-AS1 Promotes the Metastasis of Hepatocellular Carcinoma by Enhancing YWHAG

Objectives

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common malignant tumors. LncRNA PTPRG-AS1 (PTPRG-AS1) has been confirmed to function as a regulator in various cancers, whose function during HCC tumorigenesis is still not clear now. Thus, we aim to dig out the biological function and its mechanisms of PTPRG-AS1 in HCC.

Methods

PTPRG-AS1 relative expression in tissues and cells was detected and analyzed using real-time quantitative PCR (qRT-PCR). Subcellular distribution of PTPRG-AS1 was examined by FISH experiments. The effects of PTPRG-AS1 in the growth of HCC were studied by in vitro CCK-8 experiments, transwell invasion experiments, and in vivo xenograft tumor experiments. Dual-Luciferase reporter assay was performed to verify the interaction between PTPRG-AS1 and miR-199a-3p or miR-199a-3p and its target gene, YWHAG.

Results

PTPRG-AS1 was upregulated in HCC tissues compared with adjacent normal tissues. We identified PTPRG-AS1 mainly localized in the cytoplasm of HCC cells. Downregulation of PTPRG-AS1 suppressed HCC progression, while overexpression of PTPRG-AS1 showed the opposite effects. Furthermore, PTPRG-AS1 served as a miR-199a-3p sponge and positively regulated YWHAG expression. Besides, PTPRG-AS1 could promote HCC through miR-199a-3p/YWHAG axis.

Conclusions

Taken together, we demonstrated PTPRG-AS1 may serve as a ceRNA and reversely regulates the expression of miR-199a-3p, thus facilitating HCC tumorigenesis and metastasis, which is expected to provide new clues for the treatment of HCC.

CLINICOPATHOLOGIC AND MOLECULAR ANALYSIS OF A SINGLE BCOR-CCNB3+ UNDIFFERENTIATED SARCOMA OF THE KIDNEY CONFERS SIGNIFICANT EPIGENETIC ALTERATIONS

Undifferentiated soft tissue sarcomas (UDSTSs) are a group of mesenchymal tumors that remain a diagnostic challenge because of their morphologic heterogeneity and unclear histologic origin (Peters et al., Mod Pathol28: 575 [2015]). In this case report, we present the first multiomics molecular signature for a BCOR–CCNB3 sarcoma (BCS) that includes mutation analysis, gene expression, DNA methylation, and micro RNA (miRNA) expression. We identify a paucity of additional mutations in this tumor and detail that there is significant dysregulation of gene expression of epigenetic remodeling agents including key members of the PRC, Sin3A/3b, NuRD, and NcoR/SMRT complexes and the DNA methyltransferases DNMT1, DNMT3a, and DNMT3b. This is accompanied by significant DNA methylation changes and dysregulation of multiple miRNAs with known links to tumorigenesis. This study significantly increases our understanding of the BCOR effects on fusion-positive undifferentiated sarcomas at both the genomic and epigenomic level and suggests that as better-tailored and more refined treatment algorithms continue to evolve, epigenetic modifying agents should be further evaluated for their efficacy against these tumors.

miR-199a-3p plays an anti-tumorigenic role in lung adenocarcinoma by suppressing anterior gradient 2

Previous studies have explored the association between protein-coding genes and microRNAs (miRNAs) in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). However, the influence of the miR-199a-3p/anterior gradient 2 (AGR2) axis in LUAD has not yet been fully explored. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the underlying roles of AGR2 and miR-199a-3p in the development of LUAD. The expression levels of miR-199a-3p and AGR2 in LUAD tissues and cells were detected via quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). A luciferase assay was also performed to identify the interaction between AGR2 and miR-199a-3p. Moreover, the cell counting kit 8 (CCK-8), 5'-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine (BrdU), and adhesion assays were used along with flow cytometry to verify the malignancy of LUAD in vitro, while a xenograft tumor assay was performed to confirm the tumor growth in vitro. The findings showed a decrease in the expression of miR-199a-3p in LUAD. Additionally, miR-199a-3p overexpression inhibited the growth of LUAD cells in vitro and in vivo, while elevating the apoptosis rate of the cells. AGR2 knockdown had the same effect in the cells as that of miR-199a-3p overexpression. It was also found that miR-199a-3p directly targeted AGR2 in LUAD cells to suppress tumorigenesis. In conclusion, this study suggests that miR-199a-3p plays an anti-tumorigenic role in LUAD by targeting AGR2. Moreover, our study provides insights into the development of novel therapeutic targets for the treatment of LUAD.

Thymoquinone upregulates miR-125a-5p, attenuates STAT3 activation, and potentiates doxorubicin antitumor activity in murine solid Ehrlich carcinoma

In breast cancer, there has been evidence of atypical activation of signal transduction and activators of transcription 3 (STAT3). Thymoquinone (TQ) exerts its anti-neoplastic effect through diverse mechanisms, including STAT3 inhibition. The tumor suppressor, microRNA-125a-5p was reported to be downregulated in various breast cancer cells. Therefore, we investigated the influence of TQ and/or doxorubicin on microRNA-125a-5p and its correlation with STAT3 activation as well as tumor growth in mice bearing solid Ehrlich tumors. We found that TQ markedly suppressed inducible and constitutive phosphorylation of STAT3 in tumor tissue without affecting STAT5. Moreover, it attenuated tumor growth, downregulated STAT3 downstream target proteins, and increased the apoptotic activities of caspase-3 and -9. Interestingly, TQ-elicited synergism of doxorubicin anti-neoplastic activity was coupled with upregulation of tumoral microRNA-125a-5p. Taken together, the current findings raise the potential of TQ as a promising chemomodulatory adjuvant to augment mammary carcinoma sensitivity to doxorubicin.

Epigenetic Regulation of Angiogenesis in Development and Tumors Progression: Potential Implications for Cancer Treatment

Angiogenesis is a multi-stage process of new blood vessel development from pre-existing vessels toward an angiogenic stimulus. The process is essential for tissue maintenance and homeostasis during embryonic development and adult life as well as tumor growth. Under normal conditions, angiogenesis is involved in physiological processes, such as wound healing, cyclic regeneration of the endometrium, placental development and repairing certain cardiac damage, in pathological conditions, it is frequently associated with cancer development and metastasis. The control mechanisms of angiogenesis in carcinogenesis are tightly regulated at the genetic and epigenetic level. While genetic alterations are the critical part of gene silencing in cancer cells, epigenetic dysregulation can lead to repression of tumor suppressor genes or oncogene activation, becoming an important event in early development and the late stages of tumor development, as well. The global alteration of the epigenetic spectrum, which includes DNA methylation, histone modification, chromatin remodeling, microRNAs, and other chromatin components, is considered one of the hallmarks of cancer, and the efforts are concentrated on the discovery of molecular epigenetic markers that identify cancerous precursor lesions or early stage cancer. This review aims to highlight recent findings on the genetic and epigenetic changes that can occur in physiological and pathological angiogenesis and analyze current knowledge on how deregulation of epigenetic modifiers contributes to tumorigenesis and tumor maintenance. Also, we will evaluate the clinical relevance of epigenetic markers of angiogenesis and the potential use of "epi-drugs" in modulating the responsiveness of cancer cells to anticancer therapy through chemotherapy, radiotherapy, immunotherapy and hormone therapy as anti-angiogenic strategies in cancer.

MicroRNA-199: A Potential Therapeutic Tool for Hepatocellular Carcinoma in an Experimental Model

Hepatocellular carcinoma is one of the major health problems throughout the world with a very poor prognosis. MicroRNAs are small regulatory non-protein-coding RNA molecules. We aimed at investigating microRNA-199 as a potential therapeutic tool for HCC both in vitro and in an experimental model. A therapeutic strategy based on the effect of microRNAs to target genes responsible for liver cancer was adopted in this work. The ability of these small RNAs to potently influence cellular behavior was also investigated. The role of miR-199a in the development of liver cancer has been identified using a systematic literature search using miRBase. HepG2 cell line was used to test the effect of miRNA199a in vitro. Hepatocellular carcinoma was induced in Male Balb/C mice by diethylnitrosamine (DEN). Mice were treated with miRNA-199a and sacrificed after 16 weeks and blood samples and liver specimens were collected for biochemical and histopathological assessment. Histopathological examination of liver specimens after miRNA 199a treatment showed regression of Hepatocellular carcinoma with restoration of normal architecture. AFP, VEGF and TNFα levels decreased after treatment with miRNA 199a. Caspase 3 and 9; showed decreased expression in animals treated with miRNA 199a than non-treated ones.

Roles of nuclear receptors in hepatic stellate cells

Introduction: Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are essential for physiological homeostasis of the liver extracellular matrix (ECM). Excessive transdifferentiation of HSC from a quiescent to an activated phenotype contributes to disrupt this balance and can lead to liver fibrosis. Accumulating evidence has suggested that nuclear receptors (NRs) are involved in the regulation of HSC activation, proliferation, and function. Therefore, these NRs may be therapeutic targets to balance ECM homeostasis and inhibit HSC activation in liver fibrosis.Areas covered: In this review, the authors summarized the recent progress in the understanding of the regulatory role of NRs in HSCs and their potential as drug targets in liver fibrosis.Expert opinion: NRs are still potential therapy targets for inhibiting HSCs activation and liver fibrosis. However, the development of NRs agonists or antagonists to inhibit HSCs requires fully consideration of systemic effects.

ERK/AKT Inactivation and Apoptosis Induction Associate With Quetiapine-inhibited Cell Survival and Invasion in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells

BACKGROUND/AIM

Quetiapine, an atypical antipsychotic, has been encountered as a potential protective agent to suppress various types of tumor growth. However, the inhibitory mechanism of quetiapine in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) still remains unclear. The purpose of present study was to investigate the inhibitory mechanism of quetiapine on cell survival and invasion in HCC.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Changes of apoptotic signaling, migration/invasion ability, and signaling transduction involved in cell survival and invasion were evaluated with flow cytometry, migration/invasion, and western blot assays.

RESULTS

Quetiapine inhibited cell proliferation and migration/invasion in SK-Hep1 and Hep3B cells. Quetiapine induced extrinsic and intrinsic apoptotic pathways. Activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERK), protein kinase B (AKT), nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-ĸB), expression of anti-apoptotic, and metastasis-associated proteins were decreased by quetiapine.

CONCLUSION

The apoptosis induction, the decreased expression of ERK/AKT-mediated anti-apoptotic and the metastasis-associated proteins were associated with quetiapine-inhibited cell survival and invasion in HCC in vitro.

Research Progresses of Targeted Therapy and Immunotherapy for Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common malignant tumors worldwide, with nearly one million new cases and deaths every year. Owing to the complex pathogenesis, hidden early symptoms, rapidly developing processes, and poor prognosis, the morbidity and mortality of HCC are increasing yearly. With the progress being made in modern medicine, the treatment of HCC is no longer limited to traditional methods. Targeted therapy and immunotherapy have emerged to treat advanced and metastatic HCC in recent years. Since Sorafenib is the first molecular targeting drug against angiogenesis, targeted drugs for HCC are continually emerging. Moreover, immunotherapy plays a vital role in clinical trials. In particular, the application of immune checkpoint inhibitors, which have received increasing attention in the field of cancer treatment, is a possible research path. Interestingly, these two therapies generally complement each other at some stages of HCC, bringing new hope for patients with advanced HCC. In this paper, we discuss the research progress of targeted therapy and immunotherapy for HCC in recent years, which will provide a reference for the further development of drugs for HCC.

Angiogenesis-related non-coding RNAs and gastrointestinal cancer

Gastrointestinal (GI) cancers are among the main reasons for cancer death globally. The deadliest types of GI cancer include colon, stomach, and liver cancers. Multiple lines of evidence have shown that angiogenesis has a key role in the growth and metastasis of all GI tumors. Abnormal angiogenesis also has a critical role in many non-malignant diseases. Therefore, angiogenesis is considered to be an important target for improved cancer treatment. Despite much research, the mechanisms governing angiogenesis are not completely understood. Recently, it has been shown that angiogenesis-related non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) could affect the development of angiogenesis in cancer cells and tumors. The broad family of ncRNAs, which include long non-coding RNAs, microRNAs, and circular RNAs, are related to the development, promotion, and metastasis of GI cancers, especially in angiogenesis. This review discusses the role of ncRNAs in mediating angiogenesis in various types of GI cancers and looks forward to the introduction of mimetics and antagonists as possible therapeutic agents.

Angiogenic Actions of Paeoniflorin on Endothelial Progenitor Cells and in Ischemic Stroke Rat Model

Ischemic stroke is one of the major diseases with high morbidity, mortality, and disability rate all over the world. Chinese herb-derived active components would provide valuable candidate compounds for ischemic stroke therapy. Paeoniflorin (PF) is an active ingredient from Paeoniae Radix which possesses neurovascular effect after ischemia. However, so far, few studies are reported on the efficacy and mechanism of PF from angiogenesis aspects. Results from our in vitro studies showed that the ability for proliferation, migration, and tube formation in bone marrow-derived endothelial progenitor cells (BM-EPCs) was promoted by coculturing with PF (100 [Formula: see text]M). Furthermore, to investigate the angiogenic effects of PF in vivo, we constructed an ischemic stroke model in rats and found that PF could reduce cerebral infarction, alleviate pathological injury, and increase the secretion of pro-angiogenic factors and cerebral vascular density after intraperitonially administration of 40 mg ⋅ kg[Formula: see text] ⋅ day[Formula: see text] for 14 days. Up-regulating the expression of VEGF/VEGF-R₂ might be the mechanism of PF's angiogenic action. In conclusion, the present study provides evidence that PF is an active monomer of Traditional Chinese Medicine which shows angiogenic actions on endothelial progenitor cells and in ischemic stroke rat model.